A gang of youths held up staff at an Ayrshire store with a “plastic gun” before stealing two bottles of alcohol.
The incident occurred at around 5.40pm on Wednesday at a shop on Samson Avenue, Kilmarnock.
Four young people entered the building and threatened staff with what is believed to have been an imitation plastic toy gun.
They proceeded to steal two bottles of alcohol and left in the direction of Walker Avenue.
The youngsters are believed to be around 16 years old, with one dressed in all black; another wearing a t-shirt and dark shorts with a white stripe down the side; a third was wearing a bright blue t-shirt with dark shorts, and a fourth with a grey t-shirt.
Detective sergeant Jamie Carruth, of Kilmarnock CID, said: “Fortunately no one was injured but staff were left upset and frightened by what happened.
“I am asking anyone who saw these youths before or after the incident to get in touch. Also, if you have dash-cam or private CCTV that can assist with our investigation please make contact with officers.
“Police will be conducting additional high visibility patrols in the area.
Anyone who can help is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident 2822 of Wednesday, August 31 or make a call anonymously to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.“
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