Bay of Plenty Police seeking robbery offenders' identities

Bay of Plenty Police are seeking the public's assistance in locating two men believed responsible for an aggravated robbery of a Whakatane bar overnight.

Detective Sergeant Ross Everest of the Whakatane CIB said two men, one armed with spade the other with a knife, entered the Kopeopeo Turf Bar on James St, Kopeopeo, about 9pm.

"The pair have threatened bar staff before leaving the bar with a substantial sum of cash, fleeing the scene in a waiting silver/ grey Nissan Primera driven by a third offender."

Mr Everest said Police security camera footage of the robbery identified two persons of interest.

"One is a male Caucasian wearing a grey/ light green hooded sweatshirt or jacket, blue jeans and white and black shoes about 189cm tall, of medium build with short brown hair and a clean shaven complexion.

"The other offender is a male Caucasian who also appears 189cm tall, is of thin build with short dark hair and clean shaven appearance who was wearing a grey hooded sweatshirt with a thick black vertical stripe down the sleeves and dark trousers with light coloured shoes."

Both men appear to be aged in their late teens to early twenties.

"We're appealing for anyone who may know who was responsible for the robbery to contact the enquiry team at the Whakatane Police Station on 07 3085255.

"If you recognise the pair we ask you do not approach them but instead phone 111," said Mr Everest.

Alternatively information can be left anonymously on Crimestoppers; 0800 555111.