Armed Crime Squad detectives have released new images and CCTV footage in relation to an armed robbery where a woman was confronted by two men with firearms in Westmeadows last year.
Officers were called to the Westmeadows Tavern just after 5am on March 2, 2020 following reports two people armed with firearms had entered the business.
“Shortly after police arrived, the woman ran from the venue stating she had been held inside,” Victoria Police said in a statement.
She was not physically harmed during the incident.
The images and CCTV vision released today reveal for the first time an image of a man who was seen fleeing the venue.
“These alleged offences are incredibly serious and terrifying for the victim who was just going about her work. This will have long lasting effects on both her and the wider community,” said Armed Crime Squad Inspector Dean Thomas.
“Any use of firearms in this way is absolutely concerning for police,” he said.
“We believe that there are people in the community that know exactly who was involved in this and we are urging those people to come forward and speak to us.
“We’re confident that we will be able to track down the right people to hold the offenders to account and to keep the community safe.”
Police have also released footage showing the males inside the venue, while a second piece of footage shows a dark coloured SUV believed to have been used by the offenders to leave the scene.
The vision comes as detectives make a fresh appeal for anyone with information to come forward.
“Armed Crime Squad detectives arrested a 58-year-old Greenvale man in Bonds Lane on 2 April, 2020 in relation to the incident,” Victoria Police said.
“He was charged with armed robbery, false imprisonment and aggravated burglary and remanded in custody to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court.
“Detectives are hoping today’s appeal will assist in helping them locate the second offender.”
Police are urging anyone who recognises the man or the vehicle in the images, or with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
