A manhunt has been launched for an armed robber who targeted Marks and Spencer in Oban in broad daylight.
The culprit threatened a teenage shop assistant with a firearm before fleeing with a three-figure sum from the household name’s branch in Lochavullin Drive.
The attacker – dressed in a military-style khaki jacket, outdoor boots and a black beanie hat with a green and red stripes – carried out the terrifying robbery just after 3pm today.
He entered the M&S foodhall, approached the checkout and threatened the member of staff with what appeared to be a firearm, according to police, and demanded money.
He then walked out of the shop with hundreds of pounds – with no clue as to which direction he went.
Police have issued an urgent appeal following the raid, which has left the local community in total shock.
Oban Community Council chairwoman Marri Malloy said: “It is dreadful it has happened in Oban.
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“I can’t understand it as everyone knows everyone else. It is terrible. It is a disgrace.”
Andrew Spence, from Bid4Oban, said: “[I am] absolutely shocked that something like this could happen in Oban. I’ve never known anything like this to happen in the town.”
Police said no firearm was discharged throughout the incident, but stressed that the shop assistant was left extremely traumatised.
Detective Inspector Scott Hamilton said: “This was a very frightening experience for the young shop assistant and anyone else who was within the shop at the time and thankfully no-one was physically hurt.
“We are currently making inquiries in the area to establish where the culprit went to when he walked out of the shop.”
The suspect is described as white, around 6ft, 45 to 50, slim or medium build wearing a khaki green jacket, outdoor boots and a black beanie style hat with a green and red stripe.
Det Insp Hamilton said: “Anyone who recognises the description of the suspect or thinks they may have seen him hanging around the area either before or after the robbery took place is asked to contact police at Clydebank immediately via 101.
“Alternatively calls can be made to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained.”
A notice on the store’s door apologising to customers said it was shut ‘because of an incident’. The store at Oban Retail Park was open again by 6pm.
An M&S spokesperson, said: “We take the security of our stores and safety of our colleagues very seriously. We are fully supporting the police with their investigation.”
