Police are appealing for public assistance following the armed robbery of a motel in Sydney’s south yesterday.

About 5pm (Tuesday 24 January 2011), a man entered the motel on Princes Highway, Sylvania, and threatened the 21-year-old female receptionist.

Police have been told the man ordered the woman to get on the ground while telling her he was armed with a firearm.

The man then fled with a sum of cash and police were notified.

Officers attached to Sutherland Local Area Command attended and established a crime scene which was examined by specialist forensic officers.

A canvass of the surrounding area was also conducted.

Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the robbery, or any suspicious activity in the vicinity of Princes Highway at Sylvania, to come forward.

The offender is described as being of Pacific Islander / Maori appearance, about 175cm tall, and of large build.

He was wearing a grey jumper and shorts.

Anyone with information should contact Sutherland Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.