Two men have been charged after a retail worker was allegedly stabbed at a Spotlight store in Glenorchy, in Hobart’s north, on Sunday.
Police were called to Howard Road around 1:35pm yesterday following reports of an incident near the store.
Police allege two men went to the rear of the store and stole an item before an employee approached them and was assaulted.
The worker was taken to the Royal Hobart Hospital with what police described as a “small knife wound”. He has since been released.
Officers investigated the incident and took two men into custody overnight.
The 28-year-old has been charged with wounding, common assault, stealing and drug and bail-related offences.
He is expected to appear in the Hobart Magistrates Court today.
A 34-year-old man remained in custody and was assisting police with their enquiries on Monday morning.
He has since been charged with wounding, state false name, stealing and common assault.
The alleged stabbing has prompted calls for action on knife crime from local Elwick MLC Bec Thomas.
“No one should go to work fearing they may be threatened, assaulted or stabbed,” Thomas said.
“Whether a wound is small or serious, the act of violence and the fear and trauma it causes are not minor.”
Thomas said the incident reinforced the need for reforms she had proposed, including workplace protection orders and measures to limit access to knives.
“Enough is enough,” she said. “Glenorchy residents, workers and businesses deserve action, not another round of regret after someone has been hurt.”
“My thoughts are with the injured worker, his family and colleagues and everyone who witnessed or was affected by this frightening incident.”
Anyone with information has been urged to contact Tasmania Police on 131 444 and quote OR815810 or Crime Stoppers anonymously.
