Armed robbers on the run after axe raid on Lower Gornal Post Office

The men burst into the Post Office in Lake Street, Lower Gornal, just after 8am on Monday morning.

However staff activated the emergency alarm and called 999 and the robbers left empty handed.

Armed police were sent to the scene and the police helicopter was also reported to have been in the area but so far the raiders have not been found.

The robbery is the latest in a series of attempted raids at the same shop, which has been run by Baz Khan for around 10 years.

Mr Khan was working in the secured section of the premises behind a screen when the men arrived.

“They had some weapons on them,” he said.

“They got into the shop but could not get into the post office so they ran off.

“They were not going to hang around. I was not hurt at all.”

Shocked neighbours praised Mr Khan and said they hoped the culprits were found quickly.

Colwall Road resident Yvette Treasure, 29, said: "I dropped my son off at school as normal this morning and when I was coming back home I saw the police cars.

"It's not the first time someone's tried to raid him. It's a shame he keeps getting targeted.

"Baz has been based round here for years. He is lovely. I hope they catch who's responsible."

Norman Brookes, 79, of Cricket Meadow, a retired road worker, said: "It's frightening that this can happen in the local area. I don't go out at night anymore.

"I think the culprits are scum. Law-abiding people go out to earn their keep and don't go round robbing others. It's like taking the sugar out of your tea while you're drinking it.

"I hope the police lock them up.

"For me the post office is quite valuable. I get my paper, my lottery ticket and pay my gas and electric bills. Baz is very helpful."

A West Midlands Police spokesman said officers were working hard to find the men responsible.

They said: "We were called to reports of an attempted robbery at the Post Office in Lower Gornal.

"Two suspects, armed with an axe, turned up at the Lake Street branch around 8am. Staff members activated the emergency alarm and called 999.

"Thankfully no one was injured and nothing was stolen.

"We immediately sent officers to the scene and our enquiries are ongoing. Our primary focus is to find the people responsible.

"Anyone with information should get in touch via Live Chat on our website or call us on 101. Please quote log number 555 of 14/02/2022. Want to remain 100 per cent anonymous? Call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Tell them what you know, not who you are."