UPDATE 11:00 a.m.:

Kamloops RCMP say a suspect in the recent spate of robberies in the city was arrested after a fourth robbery this morning at 9:50 a.m. this morning.

Cpl. Jodi Shelkie says the Parkcrest Neighbourhood store was robbed by someone who matched the description of the suspect in three other robberies in the last 30 hours.

She says a 44 year old Kamloops man, who was known to police, was taken into custody without incident in the Batchelor Heights area a short while later.

“[He was] fairly prolific at the robberies here, and it’s alarming when there’s that many robberies in such a short time,” she said. “Luckily, no body was injured.”

Shelkie says a knife was found in the man’s vehicle.

“At this time there’s nothing linking him to the other robberies either at Thompson Rivers University or in downtown Kamloops,” Shelkie added.

The BC Prosecution Service will determine any charges.

 

ORIGINAL – 

Kamloops RCMP are investigating three armed robberies that they believe is the work of the same person in the last 24 hours.

The robberies were at the Cornerstone Market on Halston Avenue on April 14 at 3:50 a.m., the Mac’s Convenience Store in the 200 block of Tranquille Road at 11:10 p.m. on April 14, and the Halston Esso at 1:30 a.m. on April 15.

On all three occasions, Sgt. Brandon Bulizuik says the suspect had a large knife.

The suspect is believed to be a Caucasian man between 45 and 55 years of age, with a larger build and stature with a grey goatee.

He was wearing a blue and grey Vancouver Canucks hooded sweatshirt during each of the three robberies, and is believed to be driving a silver or grey, smaller four-door sedan.

“The Kamloops RCMP are actively seeking out this suspect with all available resources,” added Buliziuk, in a release. “Should you encounter him in your business, do not attempt to apprehend him but rather dial 911 as quickly as possible to aid in the expedited response of police resources.”

“The suspect is to be considered armed and dangerous to the Public.”

Cpl. Jodi Shelkie added there is nothing to link these robberies to another armed robbery around 1:00 a.m. on the TRU campus.

If you have information, contact the Kamloops RCMP or Crimestoppers.