Arrests made after knifepoint robbery in Westport

SCENE?The Harbour Store, The Quay, Westport.?Pic: Google Maps

Arrests made after knifepoint robbery in Westport


Neill O’Neill

TWO men have been arrested in connection with an armed burglary at The Harbour Store on Westport Quay on Saturday night. Gardaí made the arrests soon after the incident, which occurred as the store owner was cashing up and preparing to close.
It is thought that the suspects are known to Gardaí and The Mayo News understands that one of them was recently released from prison, where he served time for a very serious offence.
A substantial sum of money was also stolen from a private dwelling at The Quay in Westport on Saturday night, prompting further appeals for information from Gardaí from the public, on what was a busy night in the area.
Two men entered the Harbour Store some time around 9.30pm with their faces covered and brandishing a knife. They demanded money from the store owner, who hesitated, and the men then quickly left empty handed.
It was the second time in three years that a person has attempted to hold up the shop, the last time a staff member was threatened with a screwdriver.
After fleeing the culprits were spotted entering the grounds of Westport House where they changed clothes and emerged on the Golf Course Road on the other side of Westport. However, they were arrested in that area soon afterwards, and a follow up search found the knife believed to have been used in the hold-up.
The men were released after questioning and a file is being sent to the DPP.
Anyone who saw anything suspicious at the Harbour area, around the pond, at Westport House, or on The Greenway, Quarry Lane or Upper Quay areas, is asked to contact Gardaí in Westport on 098 25555.