OFFICERS are hunting three men after a woman was robbed at knifepoint in Carlisle.

Police have released CCTV images following a raid of a woman’s home on Orchard Street on October 1.

The force believes that three men are involved, who are described as Asian, who they believe were responsible for taking an unknown amount of cash from the woman, who was also assaulted in the process.

The cash stolen included Japanese yen, South Korean won, euros, along with Hong Kong, Singapore and US dollars.

Officers believe the raid took place shortly before 8pm.

They were called soon after and put a police cordon in place just minutes later.

Speaking after the incident a police spokesman said: “It is believed three men accessed the house and demanded money from the occupant.”

“A cordon is in place at the scene as officers carry out their inquiries.

“Such incidents are rare in Cumbria and detectives request the public’s assistance in this investigation.

“In particular, officers want to hear from nearby residents who may have noticed any suspicious activity in the area yesterday evening.”

Detectives investigating the case believe that one of the men used a knife against the victim - who is aged in her 30s - which caused minor injury to her hand.

In addition to the release of CCTV images, police are continuing their appeal to hotel and B&B managers who may have had three men stay at their property between September 30 and October 2.

They are also keen to hear from taxi drivers who may have transported the men.

Detective Chief Inspector Jenny Beattie, of North Cumbria Crime and Safeguarding Team, said: “We would like to hear from anyone who can identify the suspects from the CCTV images we have released.

“We are also continuing our appeal to hoteliers or B&B managers who may be able to assist our investigation.

“Likewise, we would like to hear from taxi drivers who may have transported these men.

“Incidents of this nature are a rare occurrence in Cumbria and we require the public’s help in catching those responsible in this case.”

Any witnesses to the incident, or anyone that was in the area the time, are asked to contact police on 101.

The log number for the incident is 219 of October 1.

Alternatively they can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Or they can contact police via email on 101@cumbria.police.uk.