Knife Point Robbery At Portsmouth Arcade

Detectives have released CCTV images of a man who is sought following a knife point robbery in Portsmouth.

The incident took place at around 2.15pm on Sunday, February 5 at Regency Leisure Arcade, Gladys Avenue, Portsmouth.

A female staff member was in the kitchen at Regency Leisure Arcade when she was confronted by the offender.  He had a knife in his hand; he grabbed her and held the knife to her face.

The offender then demanded money from the safe.  Another employee handed over cash and the offender then let go of the female member of staff and made off on foot

A member of the public made off after the offender and followed him on foot to the area of the Derby Road car park, through Pitcroft Road, towards the direction of Stamshaw Road and in the direction of the Mountbatten Centre and Alexandra Park.  Themember of public then lost sight of him.

The man police want to speak to is described as:

More than 6ft
Medium build
He spoke with an Eastern European accent

Detective Constable Verity Lamb, said: “This was a terrifying ordeal for the victim and her colleagues.  It has been a terrible shock for them all and they are understandably very shaken by what has happened.

“There were also a number of witnesses present at the time of the incident. We would urge anyone who might have seen this man and haven’t already spoken to the police, to make contact. We are particularly interested in hearing from anyone or saw the offender running from the scene, or saw him in the area prior to or after the robbery.

“It is possible that someone will recognise the man in the CCTV. Do you know someone who has recently obtained a large quantity of cash? If you think you know who this man is, please contact us at the earliest opportunity.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Fratton CID on 101 or via the website www.hampshire.police.uk/internet/contact/message_officer.htm

You can also call the charity Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously.

Minicom users should call 01962 875000.