Thugs with knives steal cash from chip shop

MASKED robbers wielding knives and a hammer held up a chip shop.

The thugs burst into the Seven Seas chip shop on Wigan Lane, Wigan, just as staff were locking up at closing time.

A staff member had closed the shop, taken the cash out of the till and was about to go into the office when he heard a woman scream.

As he turned around he was confronted by a masked man holding a large kitchen knife.

The thug waved the knife at him and demanded money, so the staff member gave him some cash.

At this point a second offender appeared and stood next to first man holding a small knife and a hammer.

The two offenders made further demands before fleeing with the cash through the back door.

Fortunately no-one was hurt during the robbery.

The incident happened shortly after 9.15pm on Sunday, September 24.

Both offenders are described as 5ft 9in and of medium build.

The first is further described as wearing a black hooded top with a mesh-like material covering his face, and black tracksuit bottoms.

Police have launched an investigation and are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Detective Constable Andy Hill, of Wigan CID, said: “This was a violent robbery, in which the victims were faced by men wielding weapons.

“It’s vital that we catch whoever did this and stop them from targeting any other businesses in the area.

“If you saw two men acting suspiciously in the area at the time, or you have any information that may be able to help our investigation, I would urge you to get in touch with police.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 0161 856 5307, 101 – quoting incident number 2140 of September 24, 2017 – or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.