Shop owner threatened with rifle in Melbourne milk bar robbery

A man armed with a rifle stormed a milk bar in St Kilda East this morning, threatening the owner and pointing the firearm towards him.

Police believe a silver Mercedes Viano van with tape covering the registration plates pulled up outside the Alexandra Street business just before 9am.

A getaway driver remained in the vehicle while a passenger got out and entered the store with the rifle.

He confronted the shop owner, demanding he place cash from the register into a bag while pointing the firearm at him.

At one point, an unknowing woman attempted to enter the milk bar and was threatened by the man before she fled.

The offender escaped with cigarettes and cash.

No shots were fired during the robbery and no one was injured.

The man has been described as 185cm tall, with a solid build and an Australian accent.

He was wearing a grey hooded top and a bandana covering his face.

A witness managed to take a photo of the alleged offenders’ vehicle as it fled the scene.

Anyone with information about the offender is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.