Staff at a Wimbledon store were punched, kicked in the head and threatened with a knife during a spree of terrifying robberies earlier this month.

Detectives investigating two high-value robberies at a WHSmiths have now released CCTV images in connection with the incidents.

On December 12 at around 5.15pm, three young men entered the Wimbledon station store and demanded cigarettes from behind the counter.

The member of staff was punched in the face and kicked in the head, before the young men left with a large quantity of stolen cigarettes and tobacco.

Wimbledon Times:

Four days later, on December 16, four young men entered the same WHSmiths store at around 8.15pm.

One of the young men was armed with a large kitchen knife, and all had their faces covered.

The member of staff was pushed against the counter and grabbed around the neck, while the young men proceeded to steal another significant quantity of tobacco and cigarettes.

Altogether, more than £2000 of cigarettes and tobacco were stolen during the two incidents.

Wimbledon Times:

Officers believe the young men in the CCTV images may have information which could help their investigation.

Detective Sergeant Dean Percival said: “These are two shocking robberies which must have been terrifying for the members of staff involved.

“At the moment, we are treating these incidents as linked, and doing all we can to find those responsible.

Wimbledon Times:

“I would urge everyone to take a careful look at these images and to get in touch with us as soon as possible if you recognise any of the young men pictured.”

If you recognise them or have any information please contact BTP by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference 1900108528.

Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.