Third time unlucky

CLOSE TO QUITTING . . . Sheik Muhammad

A FAILSWORTH shopkeeper who was the victim of a third armed robbery in 12 months is thinking about quitting.

Three masked men armed with a sword, hammer and knife burst into Raja Off Licence, in Hardman Lane, late on Wednesday.

Owner Skeikh Muhammad (30) was ordered to lie on the ground while the men emptied the till, stole a laptop, and grabbed cigarettes and alcohol.

When a customer tried to enter the shop, Mr Muhammad attempted to stand up but was hit in his left eye with the hammer before the offenders fled in the direction of Old Road.

Mr Muhammad said it was the third armed robbery this year — he had been threatened with a baseball bat and a knife previously.

He said: “I’ve never seen weapons like that before, it was like something out of a horror film.

“I’ve been shoplifted so many times and suffer abuse from people on a weekly basis.

“I’ve been here two years and I don’t want to go but I may have to for my safety.

“I’ve told police if it happens again, next time I’ll do something for myself.”

Mr Muhammad said he previously told police a CCTV camera was needed in Hardman Lane.

He said: “I’ve asked police to install a camera because there is always trouble, and I’ve asked for a panic button, but never heard anything back.

“Last time I gave a statement, about six months ago, they never kept me informed about what happened.

“They should be doing more or I will have to sell my business.”

Inspector David Stopford, from the Failsworth and Hollinwood area policing team, said: “I would like to reassure the victim this incident is being investigated thoroughly and we are doing all we can to catch those responsible.

“I have arranged to meet him to discuss any concerns he has.”

All three men are described as white and were dressed in black.

Inquiries are continuing and witnesses are asked to call Oldham CID on 0161 856 8951.