Gun held to shop worker’s head during terrifying robbery in Ballyfermot

By Maurice Garvey

A GUNMAN pointed a firearm at the head of a shop employee during a terrifying raid in Ballyfermot.

The lone gunman entered the Spar store on Monday, April 24, at approximately 9.30pm, and went straight to the till, pointing the gun at a male staff member and demanding money.

Ballyfermot Garda Station are investigating the incident, and are appealing for witnesses.

They are trying to establish if the male suspect acted alone, or if he had an accomplice waiting outside in a car.

A local source told The Echo that the only redeeming feature of the robbery was that it was an experienced employee who was unfortunate to have the gun pointed at his head, rather than a less experienced employee.

Community activist Henry Harding blasted the incident, citing other recent cases of anti-social behavior in the community. “The thugs are taking over,” he said.

“It’s a disgrace what is happening all over Ballyfermot. The Ballyfermot community must stand together and fight these thugs.”

According to the latest garda statistics, there were 27 thefts from shops in the district from January to March 2017.

This represents an average of nine thefts from shops per month, over the last three years, for the corresponding months January to March.

A garda spokesperson said: “Gardai are investigating an incident on Decies Road on April 24, where a lone male entered the premises, and threatened staff with what appears to be a firearm.

“He demanded money, and made off with a small amount of cash. Part of the investigation is to establish if a vehicle was used and which direction the suspect fled after leaving the premises.”

Gardai are appealing for anyone with information to contact Ballyfermot Garda Station at 666 7200.