A group of hooded youths stormed the local IGA Supermarket at the Studfield Shopping Centre on Stud Road in Wantirna South this evening at approximately 5:00 pm.
According to an eyewitness, an employee of the IGA, four hooded youths stormed the shop front, jumping the counter with one youth brandishing a sword.
The youths first targeted rollies before moving onto the more traditional cigarette stocks.
The heist escalated with one of the offenders grabbing a wine bottle, using it to threaten staff in an attempt to coerce them into opening the till in order to access the days cash takings.
It is understood the incident may be connected to recent events in Rowville and Mt Waverley.
Police have launched an active investigation into the robbery.
Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or has any other information that could assist the investigation is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.
