Police hunt man over string of 'terrifying' armed robberies at London betting shops

CCTV appeal: Police want to speak to this man in connection with a string of armed robberies
Metropolitan Police
Hatty Collier19 December 2016
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Detectives are hunting a man suspected of carrying out a string of “terrifying” armed robberies at betting shops across London.

The man is alleged to have targeted betting shops in nine armed robberies in the Plaistow, Stepney and Whitechapel areas including two in the last week, police said.

He is said to have entered the store, demanded cash and threatened staff with a suspected gun during each robbery.

Officers released a CCTV image of a man they want to speak to in connection with the incidents.

The Coral bookmakers in Barking Road, Plaistow, was targeted three times on February 10, November 21 and December 9.

Appeal: Police want to quiz this man

On February 28, an attempted robbery took place at a Paddy Power shop in the same road in the afternoon. The suspect was challenged by a customer and left the shop with nothing, fleeing in the direction of Warmington Street.

The Betfred bookmakers in Mile End Road, Stepney, was targeted four times on March 21, October 27, November 23 and December 15.

On December 13, a man attempted to raid the Paddy Power store in Whitechapel Road but left empty-handed when a staff member raised the alarm and managed to safely leave the area.

An estimated £1,600 was stolen during the robberies. The suspect was described as an Asian man, aged in his 30s, and of medium build.

Detective Constable Tom Boow, the investigating officer from the Met's Flying Squad, said: "These robberies have been terrifying for the victims, and it is very fortunate that no one has been physically injured."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

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