Shopkeeper held by the throat by thugs

POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a shopkeeper was grabbed by the throat by intruders who indulged in a “cowardly act of bullying.”

Three raiders at the Fatema Store in Middleton Road, Westwood on the evening of January 10 pushed the shopkeeper to the floor and one squeezed his throat while another emptied the till and the shopkeeper’s pockets. The third robber stuffed cigarettes into a bag before the three ran off.

The first man is Asian is in his early 20s, about 5ft 6in tall and slim with black hair. He wore a black jacket. The second was of similar appearance but slightly shorter and wearing a navy blue jacket.

The third offender was similar, but shorter again.

Detective Constable Christian Julien said: “This was a cowardly act of bullying by these three men.”

Anyone with information should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555 111.