A service station worker in Port Kennedy, Western Australia, was forced to lock himself inside a secure staff room after a group of youths allegedly broke into the business late at night.
Police said the incident occurred at a BP service station on Warnbro Sound Avenue at about 9:20pm on Wednesday, when a group allegedly forced open the locked front sliding doors and entered the premises.
Once inside, the group allegedly intimidated the cashier and threw food items around the store. The employee activated a duress alarm before retreating to a secure staff area, where he remained until police arrived. The worker was not physically injured.
A security fogging system was also activated during the incident, leading firefighters to attend the scene. By the time police arrived, the group had already left the area. No arrests have been made at this stage.
Authorities are investigating the incident and are appealing for anyone with information, CCTV footage or other relevant details to contact Crime Stoppers WA.
The incident has renewed concerns about safety for late-night service station workers, who can face risks while working alone during overnight shifts. Workplace safety authorities have previously highlighted the importance of security measures such as duress alarms, safe rooms, CCTV and procedures for handling aggressive behaviour.
