A MANHUNT has been launched after knife-wielding thugs targeted a petrol station in Basildon and made off with cash earlier this morning.

Two men, who are believed to have covered their faces with striped scarves, approached the tills at the Murco service station, in Whitmore Way, shortly after 6am.

One of the men was armed with a knife during the robbery, which he used to threaten a staff member who thankfully escaped the ordeal unharmed.

After raiding the petrol station, the two men then made off on foot with a three-figure sum of cash and e-cigarettes totalling a similar amount.

The first man was described as being white and between 30 and 40 years old. He wore black tracksuit bottoms and a grey jumper and was carrying a black rucksack. 

The second man was also white, and wore an all-black tracksuit with a blue t-shirt underneath. He also carried a black rucksack. 

Essex Police are now appealing for information following the theft.

Anyone with CCTV, dash cam footage or information that can further our investigation is asked to call Basildon CID on 101 and quote the crime reference number 42/53628/20.

Alternatively, if you would prefer to remain anonymous, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or submit information through their website.