Shocking CCTV footage has emerged showing the moment a courageous massage parlour worker was violently shoved to the ground as she attempted to prevent a thief from stealing cash from the till.
Dramatic Confrontation Caught on Camera
The incident occurred at the Lavender Thai Therapy parlour on Station Parade in Elm Park, East London. The video, recorded last Saturday, shows a man brazenly reaching over the counter to grab money from the open till.
A quick-thinking female employee immediately intervenes, attempting to block the thief's escape and protect the business's earnings. In a distressing escalation, the suspect forcefully pushes the woman to the floor before fleeing the scene with approximately £250 in stolen cash.
Police Investigation Underway
The Metropolitan Police have confirmed they are investigating the robbery. A spokesperson stated that officers received a report of a shop robbery on Station Parade on January 3.
"The suspects had left the scene at the time it was reported," the spokesperson said. "Officers have visited the premises and spoken to the owner. Enquiries, including examination of CCTV, are ongoing. No arrests have been made."
The police examination of the CCTV footage from the Lavender Thai Therapy premises forms a central part of their ongoing enquiries. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
Community Impact and Safety Concerns
This violent theft has raised concerns among local business owners and residents in the Elm Park area of the London Borough of Havering. The brazen nature of the daytime robbery, which involved physical violence against a staff member, highlights the risks faced by retail and service workers.
Businesses are often advised on security measures, including:
- Keeping tills closed and secured when not in immediate use.
- Ensuring CCTV systems are fully operational and visible.
- Having clear procedures for staff facing threatening situations.
The full video of the incident provides crucial evidence for detectives. The Metropolitan Police continue their search for the suspect involved in this alarming robbery.
