People who were in and around as witnesses or filming the aggravated robbery at the Whangārei Michael Hill Jeweller store are being asked to get in touch with police for investigation purposes.
Charges have been laid against five people who allegedly entered the store, reportedly wearing balaclavas and brandishing weapons, around 3.50pm.
They allegedly stole jewellery by smashing glass cabinets, assaulted two staff by pushing them to the floor and took off in a stolen vehicle before police caught up with them and recovered the stolen items.
Whangārei CIB Detective Senior Sergeant Geoff McCarthy said police have set up an online portal for photos and video that would be used to assist the investigation. Some videos of the robbery have appeared on social media platforms.
“It was a busy time of day, and we are aware there were a number of people filming what unfolded at the store. Police are asking those who filmed or witnessed the events to get in touch with us.”