Shopassistant threatened with gun

November 2008

A female shop assistant had a gun pushed into her ribs as two men wearing full motorcycle leathers and helmets robbed the Rathnew Service Station of a substantial amount of cash.

Now investigating gardaí are trying to see if the robbery was linked to two similar armed raids that took place recently in Wicklow town and Kilmacanogue.

The two men pulled up at Rathnew Service Station at 6.30 p.m. on Saturday on the one motorcycle and filled it up with petrol before both entering the store. A young female shop assistant had a gun shoved into her ribs as the two raiders demanded cash.

A garda spokesperson said the shop assistant was extremely shaken up by the incident.

‘She was terrified. The two culprits were very cool but also very forceful. They left her in little doubt that she had better hand over the money, which was a substantial amount.’

Both men were wearing motorcycle leathers. They are both described as being between 5’8 and 5’11 tall. One was wearing a black combo, while the other raider was wearing a black leather outfit featuring a patterned design. They both wore motorcycle helmets with the visors fully drawn.

When they entered, the premises was completely empty apart from staff and gardaí believe they may have been casing the service station for the most opportune moment to strike.

‘It’s a very busy service station and was busy right before the robbery and right after,’ added the garda spokesperson.

‘It’s possible they may have been sitting and waiting for a quiet moment. If anyone noticed two men on a sporty looking motorcycle in and around the Ashford and Rathnew area from 6 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. on Saturday then they should contact us.’