Armed robbery warning

Polie warned shopkeepers today against resisting armed robbers after one owner was shot dead,

Father-of-two Rajanikanit Pandya, 37, was shot at close range after he picked up a piece of wood to defend himself against a gunman demanding cash at his off-licence in Sutton.

Police are investigating possible links with another armed robbery earlier last Wednesday evening in which a shopkeeper smashed a stool over the head of a gunman trying to rob his store. The robber fled empty-handed.

Detective Superintendent Gary Richardson of the Yard's Serious Crime Group said: "If someone has a firearm, my advice is to comply with what they say and do not have a go. It can be extremely dangerous."

Mr Pandya, who lived above the store, had £140 in the till when he tried to stand up to the gunman.

Six men have been arrested in connection with the incident and five have been bailed pending further inquiries. One man has been released without charge.

Anyone with information should contact the incident room on 0208 247 8275 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.