Two armed robberies at South Okanagan liquor stores

Penticton RCMP are investigating after two armed robberies in the South Okanagan earlier this week.

The first was reported Nov. 21. At roughly 9:30 p.m. a man entered Gables Liquor Store on Martin Street in Penticton and brandished a black semi-automatic handgun while demanding money, according to a media release from RCMP.

He then fled the area with an undisclosed amount of cash.

The man is described as being roughly five-foot-10, weighing 160 pounds with a slim build. He wore a black coat with a hood, a black ski mask, black gloves and black jeans.

Two days later, on Nov. 23, at roughly 7:34 p.m., a robbery occurred at the Falls Market Liquor Store in Okanagan Falls.

A man entered the store with a black handgun and demanded money. He then fled with the cash and two bottles of Caroline’s Cream liquor, according to police.

The man was also wearing dark clothing, including: dark overalls, a dark hoodie, a dark baseball cap and a black ski mask.

“At this time we cannot confirm the robberies are related however that is something we are certainly looking into,” said Sgt. Jason Bayda, spokesperson for the Penticton South Okanagan RCMP, in the news release.

“Being a victim of a robbery can be very traumatic. No employee should have to face those risks at work," he said.

"We are asking business owners to consider increasing the number of deposits they conduct during the day, limiting the amount of cash they keep on premises or if possible removing the option to pay by cash. This can help make your business a less desirable target. We also recommend you avoid making your deposits alone."

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