Images released of armed Shildon shop raiders

Jul 31 2009 by Sophie Doughty, The Journal

CCTV images have been released of armed robbers who subjected an elderly shopkeeper to a terrifying ordeal.

The 68-year-old was locked-up and terrorised at knifepoint after two masked raiders burst into the discount supermarket where he worked, as he was cashing-up.

Armed with knives and wearing balaclavas the pair are said to have locked him in the stockroom at the 1001 Bargain Centre, in Shildon, County Durham.

Threatening him with their weapons, they demanded he hand over the keys for the shop’s safe.

And the terrified shop assistant remained locked in the storage area, while the raiders helped themselves to thousands of pounds in cash.

Police investigating the robbery on June 3 are still appealing for witnesses to come forward.

And detectives have released images of the raiders outside the store, preparing to strike.

Det Sgt Warren Hawes, of Durham Police, said: “This must have been a very frightening experience for the victim. He was put in real concern for his safety and we are hoping someone may have seen these men in the area that afternoon.”