A man was in police custody last night on suspicion of attempting to rob Empire Grocery on North Shore Road, Devonshire, yesterday afternoon.

Police responded to a report at about 1.20pm of an attempted robbery by a man brandishing a knife and wearing dark clothing and a black helmet.

On entering the store, the man made demands for money but a customer struck him and “forcibly” pushed him out of the building.

The suspect fled the scene on foot, running along Tribe Lane towards Long Ridge Pass.

Police responded promptly and were able to catch a man fitting the suspect’s description.

Anyone who may have information is asked to call the Criminal Investigation Unit on 247-1744 or the confidential Crime Stoppers hotline on 800 8477.