FIVE teenagers have been arrested on suspicion of holding up shop staff with meat cleavers and a firearm.

The robbery at Co-op in Overfield Road, Russells Hall, took place just before 10pm last night (Tuesday).

Five masked men escaped with cash, alcohol and cigarettes.

Half an hour later, armed police forced the suspected getaway car to stop in nearby Merryfield Road before arresting the occupants.

Three 17-year-olds – from Wednesbury, Kingswinford and Dudley – plus a 16-year-old from Quarry Bank and an 18-year-old man from Brierley Hill, were all arrested on suspicion of robbery.

Sergeant Stuart Birtwistle, from Dudley Police’s investigation team, said: “This was undoubtedly a shocking experience for the staff. Thankfully no-one was injured but the psychological impact of being caught up in such an incident can’t be underestimated.

“We had response and firearms officers on the scene quickly and armed colleagues did a great job in locating a car believed to have been involved.

“All five are in police custody for questioning; some of the suspected stolen goods have been recovered but searches are on-going at properties linked to the suspects.”