Criminality - Attempted robbery: Witness overpowers armed man
A 26-year-old man is accused of robbing a flower shop twice in Esslingen. Both times, he reportedly threatened employees with a pistol and demanded cash, according to the police.
On Tuesday, the man allegedly attempted the robbery and was overpowered by a witness. Another witness helped hold him until the police arrived. The police secured a firearm at the scene and temporarily detained the suspect. The suspect had reportedly fled on foot with cash during his first robbery a week prior, but the manhunt was unsuccessful.
A judge issued a warrant for the suspect's arrest, the police added. He was taken to a justice remand hospital. No one was injured, according to a police spokesperson. The investigation has been taken over by the Stuttgart Prosecutor's Office and the Esslingen Criminal Police.
The flower shop in Esslingen, where the robberies occurred, has increased security measures due to the recent incidents. The robberies have highlighted the rising criminality in Baden-Württemberg, prompting concerns from local residents. The police in Baden-Württemberg are working closely with the Esslingen Criminal Police to prevent future raids on businesses.
