A man who arrived at a Dunmurry pharmacy claiming he was picking up a prescription yesterday morning (Wednesday) threatened staff and demanded drugs.
The man arrived just before 9am at the premises in Mount Eagles Square. He subsequently fled on foot with a quantity of prescription drugs – Tramadol and Diazepam – and a sum of money.
Detectives investigating the report of the robbery are appealing for witnesses.
The suspect is described as being approximately 5ft 8” tall, and is believed to be aged in his mid-thirties with short dark hair. He was slightly unshaven and of a stocky build. He is reported to have worn a dark-coloured rain jacket and grey jogging bottoms.
“We are thankful no staff were physically injured during this despicable incident, but there is no doubt this will have left them shaken. This must have been a terrifying ordeal for them.
“I want to take this opportunity to appeal to the public to be vigilant and to ensure they do not put their health at risk by purchasing medication from an illicit source.
“I would appeal to anyone who finds prescription medicine, or who is offered prescription medication for sale, to call us immediately on 101.
“People should only take medicines in consultation with their healthcare professionals who have access to patient health records, who are qualified to assess their medical needs and can take into account the risks and benefits associated with every medicine,” said Detective Sergeant Corrigan.
Police are also appealing for witnesses.
“I also want to appeal to anyone who was in the area around this time, or prior to when the incident was reported to us and saw a man matching the description of the suspect, or anyone who has information about this incident to call us on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference number 282 of 16/10/19,” added Detective Sergeant Corrigan.
Alternatively, information can be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.