Have you seen this man? Police release e-fit to trace man wanted in connection with two takeaway robberies

Police have released an e-fit of a man they’re searching for after two takeaway robberies in a week.

The first happened at Greggs on Queen’s Walk in Droylsden at 5pm on Thursday 3 December. Police believe he entered the shop and threatened workers, demanding that the till was opened. He grabbed one staff member, who was behind the counter, and stabbed her twice before making off empty handed.

Emergency services attended and took the staff member to hospital with stab wounds to her thigh and hip. She has since been discharged.

One week later at 5pm on Thursday 10 December police were called to an armed robbery at the Subway on Wellington Road in Ashton.

Police reports say that the man entered the shop and made his way behind the counter where he grabbed a member of staff by the throat. He then took money out of the till before fleeing on foot.

No one was injured in that robbery, but staff were left understandably shaken.

Police described the suspect as “Mixed race and over 6ft tall. He is of a muscular build with dark coloured hair and dark eyes.” He is described as having a distinctive scar down the right side of his face close to his eye  and was wearing dark clothing at the time of both the robberies.

No arrests have been made and an investigation is underway.

Detective Constable Christopher Oldham, of GMP's Tameside district, said: "These robberies were absolutely terrifying for all involved and resulted in an innocent staff member being attacked and stabbed.

”I would like to reassure the public that we are following all available lines of enquiry and doing everything possible within our powers to ensure this man is found and brought to justice.

"If anyone thinks they recognise the man in the e-fit, or has any information at all that could help police to complete their enquiries, please get in touch as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information about these robberies should contact police on 0161 856 9262 quoting incident number 1945 of 03/12/2020.

Reports can also be made anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.