Security guard stabbed while trying to stop alleged shoplifters in Adelaide CBD

A security guard has been rushed to hospital after he was stabbed while trying to stop alleged shoplifters in Adelaide's CBD.

Harshpal Sharma was trying to stop four young males suspected of shoplifting at a sports store in the City Cross Arcade just before 5.30pm yesterday when he was allegedly stabbed.

He said his shirt was "full of blood" when he was stabbed in the stomach, and told 9News he underwent surgery overnight.

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A retail worker who saw the attack told Today earlier he saw the male stab the guard "in the left rib".

"There was four or five kids, anywhere from 12 to 17 (years old)," he said.

The man described the act as "extremely aggressive".

The security guard was treated at the scene by paramedics before being taken to the Royal Adelaide Hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Part of the City Cross Arcade was closed after the attack as police searched the area, with the alleged perpetrators still on the run.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information that may assist the investigation is asked to contact police.

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