Armed Robber Threatens Post Office Staff with Gun – Jailed for 12 Years
A brazen armed robber who threatened post office staff with a handgun during a December 2018 raid in Banstead has been locked up for 12 years. Lewis Vivian, 53, from Wallington, was convicted of robbery at Guildford Crown Court on 20 May.
Terrifying Hold-Up at Family Post Office
The drama unfolded just before 9pm on 12 December at the family-run post office on Woodmansterne Road. As a staff member prepared to close up, Vivian leapt over the counter, demanding cash. He then brandished a handgun, terrifying the staff before snatching more than £2,000 in cash.
CCTV and Police Work Lead to Arrest
After the robbery, CCTV images were released to the public. Two Metropolitan Police officers spotted Vivian independently and tipped off Surrey Police. Phone data placed him at the scene on the night of the crime. He was arrested on 5 January 2019.
Weapon Found at Home
A search of Vivian’s home uncovered the handgun matching the description given by the victim. Detective Constable Martin O’Neill praised the post office family’s bravery:
“Fortunately, no one was injured during the robbery but this was a terrifying ordeal for the family who run the post office and one which will haunt them for the rest of their lives.”
“I hope the sentence helps them come to terms with their ordeal. This conviction should also serve as a warning to anyone planning crime in Surrey. We will catch you and bring you to justice.”
