Police warning over robbery spate

Erin Pearson
GEELONG Police have called for vigilance among shop owners after six armed robberies in the past fortnight.
Detective Sergeant Gary Arnold said police believed some of the robberies “may be related”.
Police were yet to make arrests when the Independent went to print on Wednesday.
“Investigations are continuing and we still want to hear from anyone who may have any information regarding any of the six robberies,” Det Sgt Arnold said.
“Police are asking all business open late at night to be vigilant at all times.”
Det Sgt Arnold said police believed the same gunman was responsible for three of the six armed hold-ups.
A man armed with a firearm robbed a 7-Eleven store in Newcomb at 12.15am on January 4.
Two days later a Bell Park 7-Eleven was hit at 1.40am before a raid on a Manifold Heights service station on January 12.
A man threatened staff with a firearm and fled on foot with cash in each robbery.
Police said the offender was 182cm tall and wearing gloves, a back mask, a grey hoodie and a cap.
Det Sgt Arnold said police were also hunting two men who robbed a Belmont milk bar last week and another two who held up a Douro Street business with a knife the week before.
An armed bandit also made headlines on Tuesday when the Bell Park convenience store was held up a second time. The robber apologised during the incident.
Police said anyone with information should phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.