Police are hunting for two masked raiders who robbed a bookmaker yesterday and are keeping an “open mind” on whether it is linked to a “similar” hold-up in the city.
The pair, who were dressed in black, went into the William Hill shop on Summerhill Court with their faces covered just after 11.00am and stole more than £100 in cash before fleeing the scene.
They were described as being in their late twenties.
The shop remained closed yesterday afternoon as a team of forensic officers carried out detailed investigations both inside and outside the premises.
No-one was injured during the incident and police have confirmed that they will be increasing high visibility patrols in the area overnight.
On Monday, the Coral betting shop on Foresterhill Road was also robbed by a pair of masked raiders who had threatened staff with violence before taking off with a small quantity of cash.
Last night police said there had been “no suggestion” that any weapons had been involved in either incident and detective inspector John Swanney, who is leading the investigation, said: “Thankfully no-one was hurt or injured but it would have been distressing nonetheless for those involved and the other people who were in the shop at the time.
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“We are continuing to carry out extensive enquiries in relation to another similar incident at Coral Bookmaker at Foresterhill Road earlier this week.
“At this time we need to keep an open mind as to whether the incidents are linked but I am conscious of the similarities.
“Thankfully incidents of this nature do not happen often in Aberdeen, so let me provide that every assurance that every effort is being made to identify those responsible.”
William Hill’s regional manager, Derek Bodrell was on hand to help staff yesterday following the raid and said: “I can confirm nobody was harmed, but I can’t say any more at this time.”
Officers are keen to study CCTV footage from the bookmakers, from neighbouring retailers.
The bookmaker sits at the end of a row of shops just off the Lang Stracht in Aberdeen and is neighboured by Dominos Pizza, a barbers and a Polish grocery store.
One local resident, who did not wish to be named, said he thought the pair “must not be the brightest” and added: “The place had not long opened – I doubt there could have been much money in there – probably just a float.
“There are usually two or three staff on at any time and there is no security screen on the counter – it is all open.
“The staff must have triggered an alarm button, because the police arrived really quickly – I saw the pair running across the road.”
Last night police confirmed they had not yet apprehended anyone in connection with the incident.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Police on 101.