A 27 year old man remains in police custody today on suspicion of two robberies at convenience stores in West Heath yesterday lunchtime (Sunday 21st May).
The first took place just before midday at Cofton Mini Market in Nuthurst Road. The man made off with alcohol after failing to get money from the assistant.
Then, at just after 12.30pm, cans of beer were stolen from the Nisa Local in nearby Fairfax Road.
As the shop owner challenged the man, he spotted what looked like a gun in his bag as the man told him to back off.
West Midlands Police responded to the incidents with support from armed officers, dogs and a National Police Air Support helicopter.
The 27 year old suspect was arrested the same day from an address in Longbridge.
Anyone with information which may help is asked to call police on 101 quoting 20BW/105412J/17. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org
In a separate incident, a quantity of cigarettes were stolen when a Frankley newsagents was burgled on Saturday (20th May) night.
Police were called to Martin’s Newsagents in Arden Road just before midnight to find that a window had been broken and the cigarettes stolen.
Officers are checking CCTV for evidence and anyone with any information is asked to call West Midlands Police on 101 quoting 20BW/104978A/17.
Cover image by Ian Britton on Flickr