Detectives have appealed for information after a man threatened workers in Motherwell with knives and robbed one store.
The first incident took place around 1.50pm on Sunday when a man entered the Spar shop in Hamilton Road and threatened a member of staff with a knife and demanded money.
However, he later made off empty-handed in the direction of North Motherwell.
The second incident took place around 5.25pm when a man entered the Jet petrol station on Hamilton Road and threatened a staff member with a blade.
He then made off with a three-figure sum of cash and a quantity of cigarettes and tobacco.
There were no injuries to the both men during these incidents but both were shaken up.
Officers believe the same man is responsible for both crimes and he is described as white and of stocky build wearing a black balaclava or hat.
He was also wearing a dark-coloured hooded top, a light blue striped polo shirt and grey jogging trousers.
Detective Constable Alison Thomson, of Wishaw Police Office, said: “These were terrifying attacks on two men who were simply going about their duties in their places of work. “This is a busy area and I would urge anyone who either saw this man, or who recognises his description to come forward to contact us.
“We would also ask that people check any dash-cam footage that they may have if they were driving on Hamilton Road at the time.
“Officers have been carrying out enquiries in the local area, and gathering CCTV footage to find out more information on the man responsible for these two incidents at those times.”
Any information should be passed to detectives at Wishaw Police Office through 101, quoting reference number 3041 of 14th April.
Alternatively Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.
