Otaki attempted robbery #5

Police investigating the attempted armed robbery of the ANZ bank in Main St, Otaki about 9.30am on Monday are keen to hear from anyone who saw or heard any unusual or suspicious activity in the area either before or after the failed hold-up.

Detective Senior Sergeant Peter Vine of Levin Police said Police were today continuing to speak with witnesses and were following various lines of inquiry.

“We are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who saw or heard anything out of the ordinary either before or after the failed robbery attempt. We are very focussed on finding the person responsible and need the public’s help to locate him.”

Mr Vine said the disguised man had entered the bank and presented a firearm at staff, but left without taking any money. He also fired a shot into a security door that tellers use in the bank.

He is described as wearing a blue mask with white teeth on it, a black jacket with a white or grey stripe above and below the elbow and orange gloves, the type used for dishwashing or gardening. He was wearing black pants.

The man exited the bank through the front door and the bank carpark at the rear of the building and continued towards the south.

It is understood the bank has reopened today.

Anyone with information about the attempted robbery can contact Levin Police on 06 366 0500.

Alternatively, information can be given anonymously via CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.