Sheffield men arrested after Debenhams forced into lockdown during terrifying armed robbery

Police were called shortly before 5pm on Monday, July 20, after reports a man had entered the store on Doncaster Road, Gunness near Scunthorpe, with what was reported to be a knife.

The man then allegedly threatened staff at knifepoint before stealing items and fleeing the store.

Debenhams was forced to lock down during the incident to protect staff and customers but there were no reported injuries.

Officers heard that the suspect and another man had raced away in a grey Ford Focus and a search, involving South Yorkshire Police, was mounted.

The car was located travelling towards South Yorkshire and the vehicle was brought to a safe stop near Doncaster.

The occupants were arrested on suspicion of armed robbery. A large quantity of items, thought to be stolen, were recovered from the vehicle along with weapons.

The pair remain in custody.

Humberside Police said: "Great team work by Patrol Team 1, Team 4 and the Roads Crime Team. After a knifepoint robbery at Debenhams on Gallagher Retail Park, the suspects were quickly identified as well as their getaway vehicle.

"Within the hour the vehicle was located out of the force area by the Roads Crime Team, resulting in both suspects being arrested, the knife being found and all the stolen property recovered!

"Thankfully no one was injured in this incident. Enquiries are ongoing."