Police have launched an investigation following a robbery at a Tesco Express in Southbourne, near Chichester, where a suspect reportedly claimed to be carrying a firearm before fleeing with a quantity of tobacco.
Sussex Police were called to the store in Stein Road at approximately 11.39am on Saturday 24 October, following reports of a robbery.
According to officers, the suspect told members of staff that he was in possession of a firearm, although no weapon was seen during the incident.
The suspect then made off from the store with a quantity of tobacco.
Police launched an extensive search of the surrounding area in an attempt to locate the individual, but the suspect had not been found at the time of the police statement.
The store was also secured to allow forensic examinations to take place as investigators worked to establish the full circumstances surrounding the robbery.
Police also warned that members of the public could expect to see an increased police presence in the area while enquiries continued.
Officers are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident, saw suspicious activity around the store or has information that could help identify the suspect to come forward.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Sussex Police online or call 101, quoting serial 622 of 24 October.
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