Shropshire armed robbery suspect arrested in Wolverhampton
Police investigating an armed robbery on a couple at their Shropshire home, today arrested a 22-year-old man.
In a joint operation involving officers from West Mercia Police and West Midlands Police, the man was arrested shortly before 5.30am at an address in the Pennfields area of Wolverhampton.
He was taken into custody at Shrewsbury police station on suspicion of carrying out robbery at a country home in Lower Rudge, near Pattingham on the Shropshire-Staffordshire border during the night of March 9.
West Midlands businessman Richard Barnfather and his fiancée were held at gunpoint by three masked men who smashed their way into their home. They were threatened and tied up before the gang made off with jewellery worth around £50,000 together with three cars - an Aston Martin, Range Rover and a Mercedes - from the drive.
The three vehicles were found abandoned within a few hours at locations in Tipton, Smethwick and Wolverhampton.
Detective Inspector Mark Bellamy, from West Mercia Police, who has been leading the investigation, said: "Shortly before 5.30am this morning, around 20 officers from the West Mercia and West Midlands forces - including firearms officers - executed a warrant at a home in the Pennfields area of Wolverhampton.
"A 22-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of robbery and taken by detectives to Shrewsbury for questioning."
He said the investigation was continuing and renewed appeals for information about those involved. A £14,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the offenders.
DI Bellamy added: "This was an extremely serious and violent incident - a terrifying ordeal for the two victims. I urge anyone with information which might assist the police to contact Shrewsbury CID by calling 0300 333 3000."
Information can also be given to the anonymous Crimestoppers charity on 0800 333 111 for which a reward may also be paid.
