Man Arrested After ‘Terrifying’ Armed Robbery at Carrickfergus Off-Licence

A 34-year-old man has been arrested following an armed robbery at an off-licence in Carrickfergus. Two staff members were threatened, assaulted and falsely imprisoned during the incident on Friday evening. Police are appealing for information.

Police have arrested a 34-year-old man following a reported armed robbery at a Carrickfergus off-licence on Friday evening, 31 July.

The incident was reported at approximately 8.10pm after a man allegedly entered the store and grabbed a female employee from behind.

Police said the man held a pointed object against her throat and demanded money.

Carrickfergus Off-Licence Staff Threatened

According to the Police Service of Northern Ireland, the female employee was forced into the rear of the shop, where another staff member was working.

Both employees were then allegedly ordered to obtain cash for the man.

Detective Inspector Gallagher, from the Criminal Investigations Department, said the male employee was punched and kicked during the robbery.

He was also reportedly stabbed in the side with the pointed object. Police later identified the item as a screwdriver.

The two staff members managed to escape while the man was distracted.

Police Chase and Arrest in Carrickfergus

Local police officers responded to the incident and searched the surrounding area.

Officers then spotted a man nearby who reportedly matched the description provided by the shop employees.

A foot chase followed before officers caught up with the suspect.

Police said a struggle took place during the arrest and an officer was punched. The man was subsequently detained.

Man Arrested on Suspicion of Several Offences

The 34-year-old was arrested on suspicion of offences including:

• Robbery
• Aggravated burglary
• False imprisonment
• Two counts of common assault
• Two counts of assault on police

At the time of the police statement, the man remained in custody.

An arrest does not establish guilt. Any alleged offences remain subject to investigation and possible court proceedings.

Staff Praised After ‘Terrifying Ordeal’

Detective Inspector Gallagher praised the response officers who located and detained the suspect.

“This was a terrifying ordeal for the off-licence staff, who showed great presence of mind in being able to escape from the store,” he said.

Police confirmed that both employees were shaken by the incident but did not sustain serious injuries.

Detectives are continuing their investigation into the Carrickfergus armed robbery.

Police Appeal for Information

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should contact police by calling 101.

Callers should quote reference number 1566 of 31/07/26.

Information can also be submitted through the PSNI’s online reporting service:

Information can be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers

Anyone who witnessed suspicious activity in Carrickfergus on Friday evening, or who may have relevant CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage, should contact police.