A 23-year-old man has been charged with stealing following a theft from a liquor store in Karama overnight.

Detective Senior Sergeant Peter Kennon from the Serious Crime Squad said at around 8:15pm it is alleged the offender entered the Woolworths liquor store and moments later, was witnessed placing a bottle down his pants.

“The man attempted to leave the store, however was confronted by the security guard, who was then punched twice to the face,” Detective Senior Sergeant Kennon said.

“The offender ran from the area, chased by the security guard and an off duty Police Officer.

“Police attended and located the alleged offender hiding in a yard in Karama Crescent.”

He was arrested and charged with robbery.

Further investigations also revealed he was allegedly involved in a stealing with violence incident at a Caltex service station in Jingili in January.

It is alleged he attempted to steal a packet of cigarettes, however when the attendant locked the doors, he smashed the glass doors and threatened the victim.

The doors were unlocked and the male ran from the area.

As a result, he has also been charged with stealing and assault.