A man armed with a bread knife fled from a shop in Clifton Street, Belfast, with a pile of DVDs after demanding money from an assistant.
The attempted robbery happened this afternoon (Thursday, January 17) at around 5:20pm.
According to police, the man handed one of the female shop assistants a written note demanding money, but she was able to step away from the counter and alert police.
Detective Sergeant McPhillips said the man fled the shop carrying a number of DVDs and was seen heading on foot towards Henry Place, in the direction of the motorway.
The man is described as having ginger hair and was wearing light grey shorts, a navy Adidas jacket over a grey hoody, with ankle socks and plimsoles. He had his mouth and glasses covered with a scarf.
“Although no-one in the shop was physically hurt, staff were left shocked by what happened.
“I would appeal to anyone who saw what happened or saw the suspect after he fled the scene, to get in touch with detectives on 101, quoting reference number 912 of 17/1/19,” said Detective Sergeant McPhillips.
Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.