Detectives from the South East Criminal Investigation Branch have arrested three youths in connection with an aggravated armed robbery that occurred at a convenience store on Liverpool Street in Hobart on Tuesday evening. The incident, which took place just after 6 pm, saw police allege three individuals, wearing face coverings, enter the American Convenience store.
Tasmania Police stated that the youths allegedly assaulted a male staff member with a hammer before stealing the till, which contained an undisclosed quantity of cash. Pulse Tasmania reported that two of the youths allegedly began punching the worker before the till was removed. The entire alleged robbery was over in less than 40 seconds.
The staff member received medical treatment at the Royal Hobart Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries and has since been discharged.
The three youths, aged 14, 16, and 16, were taken into custody by detectives. They will remain detained while investigations into the incident continue, Tasmania Police confirmed. As of Wednesday, no charges have been laid.
The American Convenience store remained closed on Wednesday, with staff reportedly too traumatised to be present following the ordeal. Police remained on site for several hours after the robbery on Tuesday evening. Government minister Bridget Archer, who was reportedly walking past the store during the police response, praised the officers involved.
Tasmania Police is appealing to the public for any information related to the robbery. Anyone with details is encouraged to contact South East CIB on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers Tasmania on 1800 333 000, or submit information online at crimestopperstas.com.au. The police have requested that the reference number OR813983 be quoted.
It is important to remember that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.