Three youths armed with a meat cleaver who tried to rob a newsagent in Oxford fled empty-handed after the shopkeeper told them he had CCTV cameras.
The hoody-clad boys, aged between 16 and 20, entered the shop in Garsington Road with scarves covering their faces on Wednesday.
They demanded money and told the man behind the till that they were armed, but left when he told them the store was covered by CCTV.
Det Con Leila Kennett, the leading officer in the case, said: "This occurred at a busy time and I am sure there are people out there who may have seen something that could help police."
Anyone with information is asked to call Dc Kennett via 08458 505505 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
* A 16-year-old, 17 year-old and 15 year-old have been arrested on suspicion of attempted robbery. They have been bailed until November 27.
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