Norlane man charged over armed robberies

Hamish Heard
A Norlane man was yesterday charged with armed robbery after a spate of alleged hold-ups terrified shopkeepers across the city this week.
Geelong detectives yesterday arrested the 36-year-old for questioning after two shop assistants were held at knifepoint and forced to hand over cash in separate incidents early in the week.
Detective Senior Sergeant Rod Lloyd said the man was later charged over robberies at a Norlane milk bar, a Geelong West Subway outlet and an attempted armed robbery at a Geelong West hairdressing salon.
Det Sen Sgt Lloyd said the charged man was also questioned over allegations he stole fuel from a North Geelong service station on March 15.
The man had allegedly burst into a milk bar in Alkira Avenue, Norlane, about 9pm on Sunday night and demanded money before producing a knife.
The latest robbery allegedly occurred 7.30pm Monday at a Subway outlet in Pakington Street.
Police alleged the man threatened a young woman with a knife before leaving with a small amount of cash.
The man was due to face Geelong Magistrates Court for a bail hearing yesterday after the Independent went to press.
It has been a busy week for local detectives after armed bandits struck at a South Geelong hotel on Sunday morning and a Bell Post Hill pharmacy the following day.
Two balaclava-wearing robbers reportedly held guns to the Commun Na Feine licensee’s head before making off with cash.
Staff members at Bell Post Pharmacy were also left in shock after a man threatened them with a knife before demanding cash and drugs on Monday morning.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.