Warrants to arrest issued in Whakatane bar robbery

Bay of Plenty Police investigating Monday night's aggravated robbery of a Whakatane bar have identified two men they are seeking in connection with the incident.

Detective Sergeant Ross Everest of the Whakatane CIB said warrants to arrest had been issued for 20-year-old Auckland man, Lance Gregory BUTLER and 19-year-old Whakatane man, Joseph William MOELLER.

"On Monday night two men, one armed with a spade the other with a knife, entered the Kopeopeo Turf Bar on James St, Kopeopeo, about 9pm.

"The pair, believed to be BUTLER and MOELLER, 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 understand the pair are involved with methamphetamine and warned they should not be approached but if seen people should ring 111 immediately.

BUTLER is described as a male Caucasian about 189cm tall, of medium build with short brown hair and a clean shaven complexion.

When last seen he was wearing a grey/ light green hooded sweatshirt or jacket, blue jeans and white and black shoes

MOELLER is described as a male Caucasian 189cm tall, of thin build with short dark hair and clean shaven appearance. When last seen he was wearing a grey hooded sweatshirt with a thick black vertical stripe down the sleeves and dark trousers with light coloured shoes.

Anyone with information on the pair's whereabouts is asked to contact Mr Everest at the Whakatane Police Station on 07 3085255.

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