Two Sale shopworkers were threatened they would be stabbed by a gang of masked thugs as they robbed a Co-op store.
The robbery took place around 10.15pm Tuesday October 28, when three masked men targeted The Co-operative on Washway Road.
Disguised in balaclavas, the trio burst into the store before forcing two employees into the back office.
The pair were threatened with violence and warned they would be stabbed, despite weapons not being visible, before one member of staff was punched, twice.
Detective Constable Dan Hayes said: “The victims were on duty, just trying to earn a living, when they were confronted by a gang of masked thieves who subjected them to violent threats and a physical attack.
“Luckily, neither suffered serious injuries but they have suffered emotional distress and had no idea whether or not the thieves would make good on their threats to stab them.
“It is unthinkable for the vast majority of us to be attacked in our place of work and shopworkers deserve the exact same protection so we need to find these men and bring them to justice, sending a message that such violence on shopworkers will not go unpunished.”
After stealing a small quantity of cash, the three men then fled the scene through a fire exit at the rear end of the shop leading onto Stanley Mount.
All three men have been described as being white, wearing balaclavas and dark clothing on the night of the incident.
One of them men is around 5ft 9in while a second is 6ft tall.
The third man is described as being 5ft 6in and notably had white writing on his top.
DC Haynes, added: “I would appeal to anyone who either witnessed these men going in or out of the shop, or perhaps suspects who may be involved, to call us.”
Anyone with information should call the police on 0161 856 7863 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
Image courtesy of Google Maps, with thanks
