Driver pistol-whipped in Sydney cigarette van robbery

A driver was pistol-whipped during an armed robbery of a cigarette delivery van in Sydney's southwest this morning.

Four men in a stolen white courier van held up a driver delivering a cargo of cigarettes in Punchbowl at about 7.15am.

The driver was struck with a firearm and he and his passenger forced onto the ground after being held up at the intersection of The Boulevarde and Punchbowl Road.

The thieves stole half the cigarettes in the van before fleeing in their own vehicle, which had number plates reading ZBC 549.

The attackers have only been described as wearing hooded jumpers, track suit pants and either balaclavas or bandanas covering their faces.

Paramedics assessed the driver at the scene but he did not need further medical treatment.

Police are appealing for any witnesses to contact CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000.

They are particularly interested to talk to a woman, described as caucasian with blonde hair, who might be able to help with the investigation.