Man arrested after off-licence workers threatened with screwdriver during Co Antrim robbery

A man has been arrested after two members of staff at a Carrickfergus off-licence were threatened during what police have described as a terrifying armed robbery on Friday evening.

The incident happened shortly before 8.10pm on Friday, 31 July, when a man allegedly entered the store, grabbed a female employee from behind and held what was later established to be a screwdriver to her throat while demanding money.

According to detectives, the woman was forced into the rear of the premises where a male colleague was working. Both employees were allegedly made to hand over cash before the man turned his attention to the male staff member.

Staff escape during violent ordeal

Detective Inspector Gallagher said the suspect allegedly punched and kicked the male employee before stabbing him in the side with the screwdriver.

Despite the violence, both members of staff managed to escape from the store while the suspect was distracted.

Police said neither employee suffered serious injuries, although both were left badly shaken by the incident.

Suspect arrested after foot chase

Officers quickly responded to the robbery and searched the surrounding area after receiving descriptions of the suspect.

Police said a man matching that description was spotted nearby, prompting a foot pursuit.

During the arrest, officers say the man assaulted police before he was detained.

A 34-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of robbery, aggravated burglary, false imprisonment, two counts of common assault and two counts of assault on police.

He remains in police custody while detectives continue their investigation.

Police praise staff and responding officers

Detective Inspector Gallagher praised both the response officers and the actions of the shop workers.

“Our detectives will now take this investigation forward, but this was great work by the response officers who found the suspect so quickly.

“This was a terrifying ordeal for the off-licence staff, who showed great presence of mind in being able to escape from the store. We’re relieved that, although shaken by their experience, neither sustained serious injury.”

Police are continuing their enquiries and are appealing for anyone with information to contact them on 101, quoting reference 1566 of 31/07/26.

The investigation remains ongoing, and the arrest does not imply guilt. Any criminal charges will be determined as enquiries progress through the justice system.