Bandits use rifles to hold up hotel

POLICE are working to identify two men who threatened staff with rifles at a Townsville hotel in a terrifying armed robbery.

Senior Sergeant Chris Hicks, of Townsville CIB, said the pair entered the West End Hotel through the back door into the pokies room about 11.30pm on Sunday.

“They approached the two staff members working there and demanded the takings for the night,” he said.

Sergeant Hicks said the staff were left shaken after one of the men used his gun to threaten them.

The pair, who wore bandannas, stole money before they drove off in a stolen silver Commodore.

Sergeant Hicks ( left) w was unable to confirm the age of the robbers but said detectives were working hard to identify them.

The car, which had stolen plates, was found dumped at the intersection of Cambridge Street and Dalrymple Road about an hour later.

Sergeant Hicks said forensic officers examined the vehicle.

It is understood some part of the incident was captured on CCTV footage, which police have reviewed.

“As far as we are aware this is just a single event and it was not related to any other crime,” Sergeant Hicks said.

“We are looking for two offenders. One was dressed in dark clothing and the other in light clothing.

“As part of the investigations we need to go through the processes, identify who these offenders are and bring them to justice.”

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.