Two simultaneous robberies target businesses in France’s Alpes-Maritimes
Two businesses in the Alpes-Maritimes were targeted in separate robberies at almost exactly the same time on Thursday morning, with incidents reported in Nice and Grasse.
The attacks occurred shortly before 10 a.m., creating a tense start to the day for two local business owners. Authorities have not established any connection between the two incidents.
Armed robbery reported at Nice motorcycle store
In Nice, the robbery took place at a motorcycle shop near Boulevard Gambetta.
At least one individual reportedly entered the premises carrying a firearm and took cash from the business. Three people were inside the store at the time, according to local officials.
No physical injuries were reported, but those present were left deeply shaken by the incident.
Gaël Nofri, deputy mayor of Nice, condemned the attack and expressed his support for the people who witnessed the robbery. He also indicated that footage from the city's network of surveillance cameras had captured the suspect's movements.
That material could prove useful to investigators as they attempt to identify the perpetrator and reconstruct the sequence of events.
A second robbery in Grasse
At roughly the same time, another business was targeted in Grasse, also in the Alpes-Maritimes.
The second incident occurred at a tobacco shop. Initial reports indicate that the establishment was robbed during the same morning period as the Nice motorcycle store.
Despite the strikingly similar timing and the geographical proximity of the two towns, investigators have not established a link between the cases.
Investigators examine two separate cases
The simultaneous nature of the robberies is likely to draw particular attention from investigators, but authorities are treating the incidents as separate cases unless evidence emerges suggesting otherwise.
In Nice, the availability of municipal surveillance footage could provide investigators with valuable leads. Police will also seek to establish the identity of the suspect, determine how the robbery was carried out and trace any potential escape route.
For the businesses involved, the incidents have once again highlighted the risks faced by employees and owners during ordinary working hours.
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