An assaulted dairy owner and a member of the public stabbed with a screwdriver are recovering after a violent, coordinated attack on two Hamilton shops on Tuesday.
In a statement released on Thursday, NZ Police confirmed two aggravated robberies that occurred simultaneously on July 14 at around 6:50pm are being investigated by local police.
It's believed six alleged offenders, armed with a variety of weapons including a screwdriver, hockey stick and machete, arrived together at Hamilton's Hillcrest shopping area in two stolen vehicles.
Three alleged offenders targeted the Thirsty Liquor Store while the other half entered the Cambridge Road Dairy.
The owner of the dairy was punched several times during the robbery, according to Acting Detective Sergeant Simon Moore. The owner of the Thirsty Liquor Store was threatened with a hockey stick.
A member of the public witnessed the robbery of the liquor store and went to assist, Moore said. As the group made their escape, the individual was stabbed with a screwdriver.
Large quantities of cigarettes and alcohol were stolen, as well as the cash registers.
The alleged offenders fled in the two stolen vehicles, identified by police as a white Mazda Familia station wagon and a white Honda Civic.
The dairy owner and stabbed bystander have both been treated for their injuries and are recovering
All of the victims involved in the aggravated robberies have been offered support following their ordeals.
"Due to the serious nature of this offending, it's imperative we identify those involved as soon as possible," Moore said in the statement.
"We encourage the public to come forward with any information that can help us locate them and hold them accountable.
"There will be people out there who know who these alleged offenders are. Do the right thing and get in touch to help us identify them."
Anyone with information can contact police on 105 and quote file number 200714/6434. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously via 0800 555 111.
