Fear of bikies drove robbery
A NAMBOUR farm worker arrested over an attempted armed hold-up in Brisbane has claimed he needed money to save his cousin from being hurt by bikies.
Arthur James Williams, who is alleged to have attempted to rob a Coorparoo newsagency on Friday afternoon, appeared in Brisbane Magistrates Court yesterday on a charge of attempted armed robbery.
He claimed he was trying to help his cousin, who owed bikies $1000.
"They've threatened physical harm to him if he doesn't come up with the money," the 23-year-old told the court.
Mr Williams allegedly walked past the newsagency on Cavendish Rd and saw there was an older man alone behind the counter.
Police prosecutor Sergeant Matt Kahler told the court Mr Williams had concealed a knife inside his sleeve and threatened the man, demanding "just give me all your money" and "just give me what's in the till".
Sgt Kahler told the court the newsagency employee told Mr Williams there was nothing in the till and yelled at him to get out.
Mr Williams became angry and eventually ran off.
He was remanded in custody to reappear in court tomorrow.
