Armed thieves take chocolates, smokes

Police are searching for these men.

 Thieves brandishing a metal pole held up a Dandenong milk bar and fled with only chocolate and cigarettes.

Police released CCTV footage and stills and appealed for public help in a bid to track down those responsible.

They said three men attended the Hemmings Street shop about 7.30pm on Saturday 19 May.

One was carrying what appeared to be a metal pole and threatened an employee before striking the pole on the counter.

An employee, a 47-year-old Dandenong man, tried to fight the men off with a pole used to operate window shutters.

A short scuffle ensued and he received some serious but non-life threatening injuries.

A 45-year-old woman was treated for minor injuries and a 16-year-old girl who was also present was uninjured.

The men then fled the scene stealing only chocolates and cigarettes.

Police said three men pictured in CCTV vision could assist with their inquiries and urged anyone with information to come forward.

All were perceived to be Caucasian in appearance and aged between 18 and 30 years old.

They were all wearing dark clothing and facial coverings.

Call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report to www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.