Hold-up accused to remain in custody

A man arrested in dramatic circumstances over an alleged botched sawn-off shotgun service station robbery in the Tweed will remain behind bars until his next court appearance.

Police also allege Murwillumbah man Michael George White, 53 – who has been in custody on remand – was found with equipment used to manufacture drugs.

White was arrested by NSW Police Robbery and Serious Crime Squad detectives on November 21 – nearly one month after the alleged Tweed Valley Way, Murwillumbah robbery attempt.

Police allege White entered the servo wearing a face mask and Coca-Cola bucket hat, armed with a loaded shotgun, about 2.50pm on October 24.

White allegedly fired a shot at the roof before he was confronted by a mother and her teenage son working behind the counter.

The woman courageously ran to confront White before he fled empty-handed in a Holden Colorado ute, police allege.

It’s also alleged a pursuit was initiated, but called off due to public safety. Tweed Heads/ Byron Bay police released CCTV footage and appealed for public assistance.

Detectives and the Tactical Operations Unit raided a Murwillumbah property, where officers allegedly found and seized the shotgun, ammunition and a vehicle of interest – all alleged to belong to White.

White was arrested and taken to Tweed Heads Police Station where he was hit with nine charges.

That includes attempted robbery with a dangerous weapon, discharging a firearm, manufacturing a prohibited drug and other firearm related offences. He was refused bail.

On Monday, White appeared via videolink in Tweed Heads Local Court for a brief mention.

White will remain behind bars on remand until his next court appearance on March 25.