A swift police operation in Collaroy has resulted in the arrest of a 21-year-old man who is accused of robbing a local tobacconist at knifepoint and was later found at a nearby residence.
The incident began just after 7:00 pm on Saturday, 14 June, when police were called to a tobacconist on Pittwater Road. Officers from the Northern Beaches Police Area Command arrived at the store, located next to the B-Line bus stop, to respond to the report.
Police were informed that a man had entered the shop and allegedly threatened a male employee with a knife. It is alleged the man demanded cash and cigarettes from the attendant and then fled on foot. The staff member was not physically harmed during the encounter. A crime scene was established as police began their investigation, which included reviewing the store’s CCTV footage.
The focus of the investigation quickly moved to a home on Jamieson Parade, less than 500 metres from the tobacconist. Police, including the Dog Unit, attended the address where they located the 21-year-old man. Officers also found a shopping bag that contained cash and cigarettes, which they believe were stolen from the store.
The man was arrested and transported to Manly Police Station for questioning. He was later charged in connection with the robbery.
While police were at the Jamieson Parade home, a female companion of the man became highly distressed. Reports from the scene indicate she appeared to reach for an officer’s weapon while yelling, which led police to restrain her.
NSW Ambulance paramedics were called to the location to conduct a mental health assessment. The woman was then taken into police custody and transported to Northern Beaches Hospital for further observation. NSW Police have stated that the investigation into the entire incident is still active.
Published Date 01-July-2025