Masked man caught after petrol attack on currency exchange and theft of thousands in cash

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

A robbery plan hatched by a 30-something man fell apart in seconds after he burst into a currency exchange, doused the cashier in petrol and tried to flee with thousands in cash.

Passers-by chased him down and held him until police arrived.

Wearing a black coat, hat and surgical mask, he entered the premises armed with a gas canister, lighter, knife and a lump of white charcoal.

He lit the coal, threatened to burn the place down, and demanded the money. The cashier handed over around BD3,000.

Help

But as the would-be thief made for the door, the cashier gave chase, calling for help.

Witnesses nearby stepped in, and one of them grabbed the man and restrained him until officers turned up.

He now faces charges of attempted robbery and arson.

Prosecutors say he put lives at risk and tried to take money by force.

Ruling

The High Criminal Court is expected to rule on 15 May. His lawyer has asked for him to be acquitted.

Inside the courtroom, the story was laid out in detail.

The cashier said he was taken by surprise when the man walked in masked and hooded, pulled out his tools and demanded cash.

He described being sprayed with fuel and threatened with fire.

Employee

Another employee confirmed what had happened.

A worker from a neighbouring company said he saw the man run out with a wad of cash.

He was not sure if the man had a knife, but joined the chase when he saw someone behind shouting.

The first witness’s shirt was later tested and found to carry traces of petrol.

Cries

A passer-by who heard cries of ‘Harami!’ (Arabic for thief ) said he saw the masked man held down on the pavement, with money scattered around.

Police were called and soon had the suspect in hand.

When officers arrived, they found a man holding a green knife, a black lighter and a bag stuffed with cash.

He was taken into custody on the spot.

Footage

CCTV footage from the shop, handed over by the branch manager, showed the full sequence.

Police noted the state of disorder inside the premises when they arrived.

The man’s plan, it seems, collapsed before it got anywhere.