Waterloo regional police have arrested one male but are still searching for other suspects after a jewelry store was robbed at Conestoga Mall Wednesday afternoon.
Police posted to social media around 4:30 p.m., about the robbery, saying there would be an increased police presence at the Waterloo shopping centre.
Three hours later, an update was shared that one person had been arrested
Police say five unknown males entered a jewelry store with hammers and what is believed to be bear mace. The males smashed display cases and stole items before police arrived.
Police say they found the vehicle the suspects drove away in, but it was empty.
While continuing to search the area, police found one of the male suspects who was since been arrested and charged.
Second mall robbery this week
Wednesday’s mall robbery was the second in the region this week and police say they believe the two are connected.
Regional police are also continuing to investigate another robbery at a jewelry store at Cambridge Centre Mall on Monday.
Around 8:15 p.m., officers were called to the mall on Hespeler Road for reports of the robbery.
They say three unknown masked males entered the store with hammers, smashed the display cases and stole merchandise.
Police say the suspects drove away in a getaway car waiting outside.
Police say the suspects were carrying duffel bags at the time of the robbery. No physical injuries were reported.
Anyone with information about either robbery this week is being asked to contact police at 519-570-9777 ext. 8255 or Crime Stoppers.