Three armed robbers raid Edinburgh newsagent

THREE men armed with a knife and hammer have stolen cash and cigarettes during an “extremely frightening ordeal” at a shop, police said.

The robbery took place at Fernieside Crescent, Edinburgh. Picture: Google

The trio threatened a 41-year-old man working in Fernieside Newsagents in Fernieside Crescent, Edinburgh, at around 5pm on Monday before taking a four-figure sum of money and a large quantity of cigarettes.

As they left the shop, the worker was struck on the back of the head and needed treatment from paramedics.

Police are now appealing for anyone with information to get in touch.

The first suspect is described as white, aged around 19, 5ft 8in, with a stocky/heavy build. He was wearing a dark hooded top, dark grey joggers, maroon skate shoes with a white trim and a dark tartan scarf covering his face.

The second man is described as white, around 19, 5ft 10in, with a slim build. He was wearing dark clothing and also had his face obscured by a dark garment.

The third suspect is described only as being white and wearing dark clothing with white trainers.

Detective Constable Jonny Wright said: “Not only was this an extremely frightening ordeal for the shopkeeper, he was also assaulted and robbed of a considerable amount of stock and cash.

“We are pursuing various lines of inquiry to identify these men but would ask anyone who recognises their description to contact police immediately.

“In addition, anyone who remembers seeing anything suspicious around the store on Monday evening, or who has any other information relevant to this investigation, should also get in touch.”