Kitchen knife wielding robber terrified Halifax pharmacy staff during raid

Anjum Zaffer, aged 41 of Akeds Road, Halifax was sentenced to a 40 months for robbery, with six months for possession of a bladed article at Leeds Crown Court.

During the robbery at Heath Pharmacy, Free School Lane, Zaffer used a kitchen knife to terrify staff into handing over prescription drugs and a small amount of cash.

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He also attempted to disguise himself with facial coverings, which were to be his downfall.

Shortly after the robbery, a scarf and gloves were located by a local resident in their dustbin.

Both contained a DNA profile leading to Zaffer.

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The scarf also proved to have a distinctive pattern which was highlighted on CCTV footage.

Detective Inspector Gary Stephenson, said: “Zaffer carried out his shocking crime with no regard for the impact his actions would have on his victims and I hope the fact he is now safely behind bars will offer them, as well as the wider community, some comfort.

“I would also like to offer my thanks to the member of the public who assisted us in the case and it just goes to show that reporting suspicious instances can make a real difference.”

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