Safety footage reveals the tense moments when two males robbed a Guelph, Ont. retailer at knifepoint.
One of many suspects was wearing a Halloween costume and pulled a knife on the clerk.
The supervisor at Merely Handy in Guelph’s south-end mentioned he acquired a textual content early Monday morning from the person working the in a single day shift.
“He texted me 5:50 a.m., told me the store has been robbed. I checked the footage and just by looking — it was scary,” mentioned Marwan Ala Rashi.
Within the video two males could be seen strolling into the shop. One man was sporting a nun-like costume and the opposite was sporting all black together with his face hidden.
A nonetheless from safety footage reveals two suspects robbing a retailer in Guelph on Oct. 14, 2024. (Submitted)
Marwan mentioned the clerk didn’t know what was happening.
“He thought at first that they were pranking him,” Marwan mentioned. “He thought maybe people are just dressing up for fun,” he mentioned.
Issues escalated when the person within the costume pulled out a knife.
“They told him to sit in the corner. They told him not to move and cover his face,” Marwan mentioned.
The video reveals the opposite man shoving money and cigarettes right into a bag earlier than the pair took off.
Marwan Ala Rashi, supervisor at Merely Handy, poses on Oct. 16, 2024. (Heather Senoran/)
Guelph police confirmed they’re investigating the incident.
“It’s a concern for the police service. It’s a concern for the community. People working in these businesses are vulnerable, often working alone at a time when there’s not a lot of people out and about,” mentioned Scott Tracey with the Guelph Police.
Police are nonetheless searching for the 2 suspects concerned.
The primary suspect was described as a 6’ man whereas a stocky construct and darkish eyes. He wore a Halloween costume consisting of a black cape, white masks and gloves.
The second suspect was described as a 5’5” white male with a slim or medium construct. He wore a black hoodie, black ski masks, black pants, black and gray trainers, white gloves and a black backpack.
Tracey mentioned whereas costumes can be utilized disguise somebody’s id, they will additionally assist police.
“It also might make them easier to identify if someone knows someone who has such a costume or who sees someone who’s wearing that costume,” Tracey mentioned.
The clerk who was working was not bodily harm. Marwan mentioned he’s nonetheless shaken and is taking a while off.
Workers on the retailer have additionally elevated safety and made some modifications.
“Before the door used to be open for 24 hours. So now after 12, the doors are going to be locked,” Marwan mentioned.
In keeping with the Felony Code of Canada, sporting a masks or disguise with the intent to commit a criminal offense is an indictable offense by itself.
