Three men sought after Invercargill robbery
THE robbery of a cashintransit van outside a bank in Invercargill yesterday was a ‘‘shocking’’ ordeal for bank staff.
Last night, police continued to search for three men, believed to be armed, who robbed the van carrying cash outside ANZ.
The incident occurred in Spey St, near Kelvin St, about 9.10am, during which a security guard sustained a twisted ankle, a police spokeswoman said.
In a statement, police said the men were believed to be armed.
Witness accounts reported in local media said the men were carrying Tasers. However, police could not confirm this to the ODT.
Asked to comment on reports a firearm was later discovered, police said they were investigating after being told a member of the public had found a firearm in Anderson Park.
It was not known how the victim came to be injured, but an Armaguard Currency Management spokeswoman confirmed the person was a member of staff.
‘‘Our main concern is with our employees and members of the community,’’ she said.
‘‘Our guards are safe. However, one has sustained an injury during the incident. We are providing support to them and the impacted branch.’’
An abandoned vehicle related to the robbery was later located by police near the old railway station in Leven St.
ANZ senior external communications manager Stefan Herrick said there were about 20 staff in the building at the time of the robbery.
‘‘It was shocking for those who saw it unfold,’’ he said.
‘‘Staff and security did a great job of following the protocols for such an emergency to ensure the branch was secure and everyone stayed safe until police arrived.’’
Counsellors were on hand to help staff yesterday, and would be available for the rest of the week.
Police would like to hear from anyone who saw the men at the old railway station. They possibly left in another vehicle shortly after 9.15am.
Invercargill police (03) 2140400, Crimestoppers 0800 555111.