The Grand Hotel, Dandenong.– Shaun Inguanzo
AN ARMED robbery that left a hotel staff member with facial injuries has shocked patrons who described staff as friendly and welcoming.
Police said two men wearing balaclavas and brandishing shotguns forced their way into Dandenong’s Grand Hotel after it closed to the public at 12am on 10 January.
The men, who were wearing tracksuit pants and trainers, took a quantity of cash.
Police would not reveal the amount to prevent the possibility of copycat thieves.
Hotel management refused to comment on the matter, which involved three staff members, one of whom received minor facial injuries.
But the following morning, Bangholme resident June Shields, who often visits the hotel, said she was shocked to learn there had been an armed robbery at one of her favourite pokie venues.
“Yes, I am very, very shocked,” she said. Ms Shields could not comprehend why anyone would want to harm what she labelled “friendly and helpful” staff.
“They are lovely people to be with,’’ she said.
“I have always found them to be a delight.”
Ms Shields and several other patrons, who did not wish to be named, were forced to contend with a later-than-advertised opening time.
The Victoria Police Armed Offenders Squad is handling the case and has called for witnesses or anyone with information relating to the robbery to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
