A man has been arrested following an alleged armed robbery and pursuit near Maitland.
About 1.30pm (Tuesday 6 April 2021), police were called to a takeaway shop on Lawson Avenue, Beresfield, following reports a man – armed with a firearm – entered the store and threatened an employee.
The man fled the scene a short time later in a Mazda 3; no one was injured during the incident.
Officers from Port Stephens-Hunter Police District were notified and commenced a large-scale search for the man.
Police patrolling the area spotted the Mazda 3 on Woodberry Road and initiated a short pursuit.
The Mazda stopped and a 42-year-old man was arrested without incident.
Officers conducted a search of the vehicle, where they located and seized a gel blaster gun. The vehicle has also been seized for forensic testing.
The man was taken to Raymond Terrace Police Station, where inquiries are continuing.
A crime scene has been established.
Anyone who may have witnessed the incident is urged to contact police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.