The incident occurred at approximately 1.30pm on Wednesday, November 6, at a shop on Fewster Square. According to reports, a male suspect attempted to leave the premises with multiple soft drinks without paying. When confronted by staff members, the suspect allegedly assaulted both a male and female employee before fleeing the scene.

Northumbria Police have released surveillance images of a person of interest who was in the vicinity at the time of the incident. While acknowledging the images’ quality is limited, investigators are particularly interested in the distinctive clothing worn by the individual, which they believe may help members of the public identify him.

Police are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Members of the public can assist the investigation by:

– Sending a direct message to police quoting crime reference 131520M/24

– Using the online reporting system on the police website

– Contacting police via live chat

– Calling 101

All information provided will be treated with strict confidence. The investigation remains ongoing.