A robbery suspect was prepared to dive into a sewage-filled stream to try and get away from police on Saturday afternoon.
It was about 12.45pm when a 25-year-old woman was approached by two people while walking along Shearer Road. They grabbed her handbag, which contained personal belongings, and threatened her with a knife. The robbers then fled on foot, taking the handbag with them.
Police were alerted and officers quickly converged on the area at the top of Francis Road. Two suspects, aged 16 and 18, were soon apprehended.
In desperation, one of the robbers dived into the stream that runs through the old Trim Park in the hopes of evading capture. He swam along in one direction under Francis Road up the storm water drainage system and then floated back with the current to try and confuse his pursuers. However, his attempts were in vain and he was soon spotted submerged in the water. Police ordered the suspect to come out and he hesitantly obeyed.
A manhole is overflowing in the area, with stinking sewage water flowing into the stream. Consequently, when the suspect emerged from his ‘hideaway’ dressed only in a pair of pants, he was not only wet but smelled terrible.
Cash was recovered during the arrests.
The suspects were set to appear in court this morning (Monday) on charges of robbery.
