Spate of knifepoint supermarket robberies continue, CCTV issued: Luton/Dunstable
(LU3 - Friday, 13 January, 2012)

Detectives in Luton have released CCTV images of a man they need to trace in connection with a series of robberies at Co-operative Stores in the south of the county.

Officers would like to question the man in relation to a robbery at the Co-operative Store in Houghton Regis on January 10 as well as a further three robberies at Co-operative Stores in Wigmore Lane on January 5, Bishopscote Road on December 31 and Birdsfoot Lane on December 28.

A further robbery also happened yesterday, January 12, at the Tesco Store on Sundon Park Parade at 9.47pm and it is also thought that this incident is also connected.

On all five occasions a man has entered the shops and threatened staff with a knife before demanding cash from the tills together with Benson and Hedges and Mayfair cigarettes.

The offender is described as:

• a white male
• aged 30-40
• 6' tall
• large build
• blue eyes
• wearing a dark padded jacket

Detective Constable Michael Robinson said:

"We believe the four robberies are connected as in each case the description of the offender is very similar and what he demands is the same.

"One of the pictures attached shows two members of the public standing close to the offender as he enters the store in Houghton Regis.

"These people would probably not be aware of what this man is about to do and I would like to trace them as they could unwittingly hold vital information that may lead to the identification of this man."

Anyone who can help identify this man or anyone with information relating to these crimes is urged to contact DC Robinson, in confidence, on 01582 473398 or 101 or text information to 07786 200011.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Police Force: Bedfordshire

Address:
Tesco
Sundon Park Parade
Luton
BEDFORDSHIRE
LU3