Police patrols increased in Shrewsbury after gunpoint robbery

The men were faced with three robbers wielding a gun and a knife during the robbery, which happened on a footpath near to Bage Way, Abbey Foregate.

One of the men was forced to hand over £60 during the attack. The robbers also left one victim with minor injuries after punching him in the head.

The robbery happened last Thursday between 10pm and 10.15pm, but details were only released yesterday.

Three teenagers were arrested in connection with the robbery and have been bailed pending further inquiries.

Detective Constable Anthony Wilcox, the investigating officer, moved to reassure members of the public and insisted the type of crime is unusual for the town.

He said: "We are treating this incident very seriously and are eager to bring those responsible to justice.

"It is West Mercia Police's priority to protect people from harm and tackling violent crime is a big part of achieving this. Using violence against another person is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated by West Mercia Police.

"I wish to stress to the public that this is an unusual incident to happen in Shrewsbury and we do not believe that there is any wider risk to the local community, although reassurance patrols have been increased in the area since the incident."

Detective Constable Wilcox said they had been told the three people responsible ran off in the direction of Cineworld and stressed that the gun was not fired during the robbery.

The robbers are described as being 16 to 19 years of age, around five foot eight to six foot tall, and of slim build. One was said to be wearing a red Adidas hooded top, and another was wearing a grey tracksuit.

Detective Constable Wilcox said police are also working to identify the gun used in the robbery.

He said "At this stage, we are unable to confirm the type of firearm used, however extensive enquires are being completed locally to establish further information."

Abigail Hartley of West Mercia Police confirmed that a 17-year-old from Telford, a 16-year-old boy from Ellesmere and a 17-year-old man from Shrewsbury were arrested on suspicion of robbery and bailed until Thursday September 3.

Police are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information to call 101, quoting "incident 820S Thursday 16 July". Alternatively, people can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.