After allegedly robbing a shop at knifepoint in Auckland’s Newmarket yesterday, police say a woman attempted to use a taxi as a getaway vehicle before being tracked down and arrested.
The incident unfolded at around 4pm, when the alleged offender entered a shop on Osborne St, reportedly carrying a knife.
Detective Senior Sergeant Rebecca Kirk said the woman approached the sole shop attendant and demanded they empty the till of cash. The woman also allegedly took two bags worth $200.
“She then fled the shop – thankfully, leaving the victim uninjured,” Kirk said.
A police camera operator became aware of the incident and observed the woman getting into a taxi further up the road.
Her movements were tracked, and the camera operator helped guide police to the taxi’s location.
The taxi was found on Market Rd and followed by officers until more units could arrive to help bring it to a stop.
“Once we were able to safely carry out a traffic stop, the taxi was pulled over,” Kirk said.
“The alleged offender was taken into custody without any further issues.”
An 18-year-old woman would appear in the Auckland District Court today, charged with aggravated robbery.
The recovered property was returned to the store.
“This was a fantastic result in apprehending this person with the help of camera operators guiding officers to their location,” Kirk said.
“We are pleased to be able to hold the alleged offender to account and answer for her actions.”
