Pharmacy raid by hammer wielding thug

Nov 23 2011 by Michael Pringle, Airdrie & Coatbridge

Lloyds Pharmacy

STAFF at an Airdrie chemist were subjected to a terrifying ordeal by a hammer-wielding masked robber.

The thug burst into Lloyd’s Moss Pharmacy in Aitchison Street, threatened staff and fled with a bag full of drugs.

The drama took place while more than a thousand local residents were watching the Christmas lights being switched on in the town centre last Friday at 3.50pm.

Two female members of staff were working behind the sales counter when the raider made his way into the dispensing area clutching the hammer and a bag.

Holding the hammer at shoulder height he threatened the staff and demanded cash and drugs – telling the two women that he wanted methadone and Valium.

He then filled the bag with the prescription medication, including individual bottles of methadone which had already been labelled with the names of customers.

While the robbery was taking place a customer arrived in the shop but the masked man went unnoticed as he remained out of their line of sight.

An iPhone and a purse were also stolen from one of the staff members before he left the premises and made off down a lane.

Staff refused to comment when the Advertiser visited the pharmacy but a security guard had been stationed within the premises in a bid to reassure staff and customers.

Police are seeking witnesses and information on the robber.

Anyone with information should contact police on 01236 502000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.