A SHOP-OWNER used an empty cardboard box to scare off a bat-wielding lolly thief in a Berwick milk bar last month.
Dandenong Embona Taskforce detectives are appealing for witnesses after the armed robbery, which occurred at a milk bar on Mansfield Street just after 9pm on 3 May.
Detectives said two men entered the shop, one armed with a baseball bat, and made demands for cash to the shop owner’s 13-year-old son.
The man with the bat then violently smashed a cash register and computer screen on the counter.
The shop owner, a 40-year-old man, came out onto the shop floor and threw an empty cardboard box at the offenders. The men then stole a number of bags of lollies before fleeing the shop.
No one was injured during the incident.
The first man is described as being slim build and about 170cm tall. He was wearing a light-coloured hooded jumper with dark-coloured sleeves, dark-coloured pants, a balaclava and was carrying a black backpack.
The second man is described as being about 170cm tall and slim build. He was wearing a dark-coloured hooded jumper, dark-coloured pants, a black balaclava and ugg boots. The man was also carrying a large, dark-coloured roller bag on his back.
Detectives have released images of two men they believe may be able to assist with their investigation. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit crimestoppers on www.crimestoppers.com.au.