A man who allegedly used a knife to rob an Ōamaru store, was quickly arrested this afternoon.

The 42-year-old suspect was apprehended by police on Usk Street, shortly before 12.30pm, after police responded to a call out at a Thames Street store at about 12 noon.

The man allegedly wielded a knife while demanding items from the store, before fleeing on foot, Waitaki Area Senior Sergeant Jason McCoy said. 

“Police units were quickly mobilised in the Ōamaru area,” Snr Sgt McCoy said.

“Thanks to information from members of the public and good tracking work, the alleged offender was located and arrested,” he said.

The man is facing a charge of aggravated robbery and is due to appear in the Ōamaru District Court, sitting at Timaru District Court tomorrow (Friday, 12 July).

Snr Sgt McCoy commended his staff for responding so quickly to a “potentially dangerous incident”.

“There is no place for this violent behaviour in our community, a message I hope we made clear this afternoon.

“I would like to thank members of the public who remained calm in the situation and provided information which ultimately led to a charge being laid,” he said.

Witnesses of suspicious or unlawful activity are urged to contact police on 111 if it's in progress, or 105 if it's after the fact. Alternatively visit the local community police station, he said.