FIVE men forced their way into a Poole flat and attacked two residents before carrying out a terrifying raid of the premises.

One 22-year-old man was left with a knife wound and another was punched during the frightening incident in a flat on Poole Quay.

Now police have released high quality CCTV images in a bid to trace the offenders.

Police said a man answered his door to find the group of men outside, who then barged inside despite his attempts to stop them.

He suffered a cut from a knife carried by one of the offenders and another 22-year-old man received minor injuries when he was punched.

A 22-year-old woman, who was also present, escaped injury.

DC James Lees of Bournemouth and Poole CID said the offenders, who struck at 11.10pm on Sunday April 6, are believed to be aged between 18 and late twenties They are all described as slim with four between 5ft 5ins and 5ft 8ins tall and one around 6ft 2ins.

DC Lees said electrical items and cash were stolen before the raiders left. They are believed to have fled in a dark coloured vehicle on Cinnamon Lane.

“I am now in a position to release CCTV images of the suspects which I would like to identify as soon as possible” said DC Lees.

“I would urge anyone who recognises them to contact Dorset Police. I am also appealing for anyone who recalls any suspicious activity in the area at the time and anyone with any information about the men responsible to call 101.”

Those with information should call 101, quoting incident number 6:400 or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111. Mobile phone tariffs may apply.