Last night, two employees of an Indian restaurant in Auckland's Sandringham were left distressed when robbers stole money and threatened them with weapons.
Video / Hayden Woodward
A worker hanging fairy lights for Diwali was injured and others were threatened after armed robbers raided an Indian restaurant in the Auckland suburb of Sandringham.
Police were called to the aggravated robbery at Mithaiwala Indian Vegetarian Restaurant on the intersection of Mt Albert and Sandringham Rds at 11.25 pm today.
A police spokesperson said two people entered the premises, presented a firearm and threatened two staff inside.
“They have taken a quantity of cash before fleeing in a vehicle.
“Thankfully, no injuries have been reported to those staff members, however they are understandably shaken, and police are providing support.”
This morning the festive fairy lights remained half hung at the restaurant entrance, with the rest of the spool left on the ground.
Staff at the Mithaiwala Restaurant on Sandringham Rd were attacked during a robbery at the restaurant. Photo / David WIlliams
One staff member told the Herald through a translator that three males tried to get in the back of the store, hitting and injuring his back in the process.
“My back hurt a little but I am okay now,” he said.
He intended to eventually hang the remaining lights.
The store has been very busy in the lead up to this year’s Diwali celebration on Sunday, with two large tables in the centre of the store filled with colourful boxes.
“Customers have been coming and buying lots of colourful gift boxes, full of sweets, snacks and nuts.”
Police inquiries are at an early stage. Anyone with information that could help are asked to call police on 105 or use the online form, www.police.govt.nz/use-105, using Update My Report and referencing file number 231109/6680.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
The police were called after a robbery at the Mithaiwala Indian Vegetarian Restaurant in Sandringham. Photo / Hayden Woodward
