Police allege Jose De Mesa, 28, targeted the male after seeing him collect $8,500 in winnings from the Star Casino cashier around 1.30pm on January 29 following a couple of hours of gambling.

The victim placed the money in a satchel around his neck before leaving the casino floor and taking the lift to the level five car park.

It is alleged De Mesa followed the man, waiting until he got out of the lift to approach him from behind and punch him in the head.

The victim told police he fell to the ground and was hit a further three times before De Mesa allegedly grabbed the satchel and ran back towards the elevator, taking it to the ground floor.

He exited the building and took a taxi to Martin Place.

The victim was treated at the scene by casino staff.

He later gave a statement to investigating officers.

Police documents tendered in court claim De Mesa could be seen on CCTV “stalking the victim for at least three minutes before violently assaulting and robbing the victim of his property”.

De Mesa was arrested on Tuesday morning and charged with aggravated robbery after police allegedly identified him on the casino video footage via his distinctive bracelet and the pair of sneakers he was wearing.

However, defence lawyer Matt Ward argued the police case was weak, saying there were considerable issues with the process police had used to link De Mesa to the crime.

Magistrate Mark Douglass said De Mesa had not shown cause why he should be released, and refused him bail.

The case will return to court on March 23.