On Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2015 just before 4 a.m., the Edmonton Police Service patrol officers and AIR-1 responded to call of an armed robbery at a convenience store located at 91 Street and 82 Avenue, but were unable to locate any suspects.
Minutes later, another robbery with similar circumstances was reported at another convenience store at 98 Avenue and Ottewell Road. Patrol and AIR-1 responded to this location but again were unable to locate any suspicious persons.
Anticipating another robbery, AIR-1 deployed in the direction of another convenience store in the area of 50 Street and 90 Avenue and immediately located a suspicious vehicle leaving the area. Police confirmed that a third convenience store had allegedly been robbed under similar circumstances.
AIR-1 directed Southeast Division patrol members to the suspect vehicle. Upon approaching the vehicle, it is reported that the driver exited and fled on foot before EPS Canine Unit arrested him a short distance away.
The passenger of the vehicle was arrested inside without incident.
Weapons used in the robberies and stolen property were recovered.
Romim Mohammad-Zarif, 21, was charged with robbery (x3), being disguised during the commission of an offense (x3), possession of a weapon (x2), possession of a controlled substance, impaired operation of a motor vehicle, refusal to provide a breath sample and breach of recognizances (x4).
Behzad Alinejad, 22, was charged robbery (x3), being disguised during the commission of an offense (x3) and possession of an offensive weapon.
The Edmonton Police Service acknowledges the great teamwork between Southeast Division, AIR-1, Canine and Robbery Unit.