Two held after armed robbery at Brighton massage parlour

Two armed robbers held up a Brighton massage parlour in the early hours of this morning (Sunday 29 April).

The men, armed with a handgun and a knife, threatened the women working there and stole several hundred pounds from the staff and from the safe.

Sussex Police sent firearms officers to the area shortly after the robbery at the Brighton Belles massage parlour in Montpelier Road, Brighton, which happened at about 3.30am.

They swooped on a man near by in Western Road and recovered a firearm although it was unclear whether the weapon was real or imitation.

They stopped another man in North Road, Brighton, and recovered two knives and cash. The arresting officers believe that the cash was stolen from the massage parlour.

Sussex Police said that seven staff were working at the premises at the time of the robbery – a man and six women. Two customers were also present.

Some of the staff suffered bruising but no one needed hospital treatment.

The arrests were made without any shots being fired and a 31-year-old man and another man are currently being held in custody for interview and while further inquiries are carried out.

Detective Inspector Miles Ockwell, of Brighton and Hove CID, said: “This was a terrifying ordeal for the victims and we are pleased that a swift and effective response from armed officers has resulted in two early arrests.

“I would like to appeal for anyone who was either at the Brighton Belles at the time of the offence or in the Montpelier Road and Western Road area between 3am and 3.45am on Sunday morning and who saw any suspicious activity to contact us on 101.”

Witnesses can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.