Newsagent Horror: BB Gun Attack and £200 Loot
Faustas Demidovas and Vaidas Jankauskas stormed a Strood newsagent in February 2020, escaping with less than £200 in cash after firing a BB gun at a staff member’s face.
Violent Robbery Caught on CCTV
Just before 11pm on 21 February, the pair, part of a gang, struck the shop on Bligh Way. Demidovas fired three painful pellets into the victim’s face while Jankauskas grabbed the cash from the till.
The injured employee needed hospital treatment for their wounds.
Suspects Spotted and Snared
Despite wearing masks, the thieves’ getaway cars—a Citroen C3 and a blue BMW—were captured on CCTV shortly after the crime at a Gravesend petrol station.
Demidovas, who changed clothes before being seen, was later stopped by Metropolitan Police in Hillingdon and arrested. Jankauskas was seen driving the Citroen, despite a driving ban until 2023. He was arrested at home by Kent Police in early March.
A Double Dose of Crime and Tough Sentences
Demidovas also pulled a similar heist at a Dartford newsagent a week earlier, threatening staff with a replica gun and firing at the ceiling to intimidate.
- Faustas Demidovas, 30, of Northfleet, was convicted of two robberies, possession of imitation firearms, and attempted grievous bodily harm. He got 13 years at Woolwich Crown Court on 21 April 2021.
- Vaidas Jankauskas, 30, of Gravesend, admitted robbery, possession of an imitation firearm, driving while disqualified, and no insurance. He received seven years and nine months in September 2020.
Detective Constable Rob Sircar, who led the investigation, said: “Jankauskas and Demidovas used brazen, extreme violence to steal money. Victims thought they faced real guns, and one suffered traumatic injury. Both are a clear danger to the public. I’m pleased the court has handed down sentences that reflect that.”
Police Appeal for Information
Four other men were arrested but released without charge. Anyone with tips to identify an outstanding suspect should call Kent Police on 01474 366149 quoting 46/33484/20.
You can also report anonymously via Crimestoppers.
