Police are investigating two armed robberies in the Port Stephens and Central Hunter regions yesterday.

About 9.20pm (Tuesday 7 June 2016), two men entered a service station on the Pacific Highway at Heatherbrae. One man threatened the female attendant with a syringe and demanded cash, to which she complied.

The men left the service station and were last seen running towards the Pacific Highway.

About an hour later at 10.25pm (Tuesday 7 June 2016), two men entered a service station on the New England Highway at Maitland. One man kept watch at the door while the other threatened the male attendant with a syringe. The man demanded cash and cigarettes to which the attendant complied.

Both men then ran from the scene.

Police believe the incidents are connected and would like to speak with two men who may be able to assist with inquiries.

One man is described as being Caucasian, aged 16 to 22, about 173cm tall with a thin build and short brown hair. He was last seen wearing a hooded jumper with dark sleeves and a red and yellow “Superman” logo, dark pants and black and white “Nike” joggers. He was also carrying a light-blue soft fabric bag.

The other man is described as being Caucasian, aged 16 to 22 with a thin build. He was last seen wearing a black hooded jumper, black tracksuit pants and dark grey and yellow joggers and his face was covered by a scarf.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.