Police are appealing to the public for information in their search for North Tyneside man Lee Cook.
The 45-year-old is wanted for questioning in connection with a robbery at the Nationwide Building Society in Wallsend last Monday.
It was reported that two men had approached a member of staff outside the building society and threatened him with what is believed to be a firearm before the pair made off with a box containing cash.
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Following the report, Northumbria Police launched an investigation with officers carrying out extensive CCTV checks and door-to-door enquiries.
As a result, eight people have so far been arrested in connection with the incident.
Now, officers are appealing to the public for help in a bid to trace Lee Cook, who was last seen in the Wallsend area.
Officers have been carrying out searches at a number of addresses in a bid to locate him.
Detective Chief Inspector Martin Brooks, of Northumbria Police, said: “An extensive investigation is under way in relation to the robbery and we are committed to bringing anyone responsible to justice.
“As part of our enquiries we want to speak to Lee Cook and ask that he come forward directly or anybody who has seen him or may know of his whereabouts to get in touch as soon as possible.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to remind people that it is a criminal offence to harbour someone who is wanted by the police and anyone found to doing so faces prosecution and potential imprisonment.
“If you have seen him, or believe you know where he may be residing, please do the right thing and contact us immediately.”
Lee Cook, or anyone who has seen him, is asked to call 101 quoting reference NP-20220110-0748. Alternatively, you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by ringing 0800 555 111.
