Ottawa man charged in string of River Road robberies

A 45-year-old Ottawa man has been arrested in connection with a series of robberies in the past few weeks in the 600 block of River Road.

Ottawa police say on July 2, a man was in the area and demanded cash while allegedly committing a commercial robbery. He was detained by members of the public until police arrived.

Investigators say the man is also suspected of multiple robberies in the area including one last month in which he entered a store, brandished a weapon and demanded cash before fleeing the scene on foot.

Michael Colborne, 45, of Ottawa has been charged with five counts of robbery, disguise with intent and possession of a weapon.

Police say while they appreciate the public’s vigilance, they do not encourage citizens to make arrests.

“If you witness a crime in progress, please call police immediately,” police said in a release.