Video of robbery suspects released
Police are hoping someone may be able to provide information on two masked people involved in the armed robbery of a Kelowna gas station.
A male and female entered a gas station on Springfield Road around 11:30 p.m. on Monday Nov. 22. The male suspect threatened the employee with a knife and robbed the store while the female suspect stood watch.
it was the second time in a week that gas station was robbed. The previous robbery occurred on November 15 at 1:08 a.m. During that incident, two male suspects entered the store and one of the suspect’s threatened the employee with a pipe.
Police are investigating a possible connection between the two robberies.
The male suspect involved in the robbery on November 22, is described as follows: Caucasian man, 20-30 years of age, approximately 6 feet tall, average build, grey hoodie, dark pants, gloves, black toque and blue medical mask.
The female suspect involved in the robbery on November 22, is described as follows: 20-20 years of age, medium build, blue jeans, long, black down-style jacket with fur trim around hood and red shoes.
In both incidents, the suspects fled the store on foot toward Cooper Road with an undisclosed amount of cash and merchandise.
Investigators are hoping that by releasing the video of the robbery on November 22, it will lead to the suspects being identified.
Robbery suspects during two incidents at gas station on Springfield Road in Kelowna. (Submitted photos/RCMP)“With the holiday season approaching, the Kelowna RCMP is encouraging businesses to implement extra security measures to protect their stores and their employees,” said Cpl. Tammy Lobb. “Gas Stations, liquor stores and cannabis stores have been the target of robberies during the month of November”.
The following is a list of Holiday Security Tips for businesses:
- Use the buddy system – if employees are working into the night, make sure they are working in pairs.
- Do frequent deposits and change up these routines
- Limit entry points of the store to just one – control access by securing exterior doors and consider a buzz-in-only system
- Control activity – deter customers from entering with bags
- Lock up valuable assets
- Maintain visibility throughout the store
- Ensure cameras are functioning and are visible
- Use a security alarm system
- Light it up – use lighting strategically to light up the interior and exterior of your business, this will act as a deterrent for thieves who are trying to go unnoticed
The investigations into the robberies at the gas station are ongoing and are being led by the Kelowna RCMP General Investigative Services – Robbery Unit.
Anyone with any information on or who may have witnessed this incident is asked to contact the Robbery Unit by emailing E_Kelowna_General_Enquiries@rcmp-grc.gc.ca or remain completely anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or by leaving a tip online at www.crimestoppers.net