SHOPPERS fled a terrifying robbery at a Cirencester store during which a staff member was assaulted.

Two men threatened staff members and stole two of the latest iPhones from the Vodafone shop in Castle Street around 9.30am on Saturday.

The thieves targeted a display table showcasing the new iPhone 16 models which retail for £799 and were only launched the previous day. After leaving the store, the pair ran into a getaway car parked nearby which was driven by a third man.

Gloucestershire police said two men entered the shop and threatened staff members before pulling over display stands - causing customers to flee in terror.

One of the men assaulted a staff member by pushing them, while the other stole the two iPhones.

A spokesperson for Vodafone said: “Our Cirencester store reported a theft involving two individuals who forcefully attacked a display table showcasing the iPhone 16.

“Despite our highly-secure clamps, the thieves destroyed the table to steal the device.

“One staff member was pushed during the incident but is thankfully unharmed.

“As an industry, we remain shocked by the increasing violence used in such thefts.

“We continue to work closely with the police and industry partners to address this concerning trend.”

Within 45 minutes of the incident, CCTV operatives working with police managed to locate the suspected vehicle involved.

A stinger was used to stop the car as it left the M5 at Junction 9 near Tewkesbury.

Officers say a roadside search of the vehicle revealed a number of suspected stolen items which were recovered, including two iPhones.

The vehicle was then seized.

Two men from Birmingham, aged 19 and 31, and a man from Bristol, aged 18, were arrested in connection with the incident.

They were released on bail while investigations continue.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or who has information should complete the following form quoting incident 128 of September 21 - go to tinyurl.com/55n8f7fy