Melbourne milk bar robbed for second time in a month

A family-run milk bar in the Melbourne suburb of Werribee has been targeted by armed thugs for the second time in a month.

Up to eight youths - two armed with knives - entered the Riverdene Village Shop on Derwent Road about 7.30pm yesterday.

The thieves, wearing balaclavas or bandanas over their faces, jumped over the counter and stole cash and cigarettes.

They smashed windows and pulled items from shelves before fleeing.

Three people were in a home adjoining the shop but were uninjured in the robbery.

On June 17, the milk bar was also robbed by armed thugs in similar circumstances.

The gang stormed into the shop, jumped over the counter and stole $10,000 worth of cigarettes and $1000 cash.

A large fishing knife was held to the chest of owner Mary Lakkis.

At the time, Mrs Lakkis said she would never work again because she was too frightened. There is a closing down sign on the shop window.