Police have released CCTV video in a public appeal to track down the armed robbers who threatened several employees and patrons in a Sydney crime spree.

On January 3 and 4, at least three men targeted three businesses in Sydney’s south-west: the Canterbury Hotel, a convenience store on New Canterbury Road in Hurlstone Park, and a service station on Punchbowl Road, Wiley Park.

The men threatened staff at knifepoint and gunpoint, stealing cash from gaming machines at the pub, and cash and cigarettes at the convenience store and service station.

In Wiley Park, the employee’s watch was initially stolen, then returned.

Detective Acting Superintendent Grant Taylor told Jim Wilson police believe the robberies are linked based on the offenders’ mannerisms, a 2013 – 2017 model silver Holden Commodore seen at each scene, and “a number of other indicators that we’re keeping close to our chest”.

He admitted the return of the watch by “a criminal with a conscience” is very unusual, and may help track the culprits down.

“Someone might’ve heard one of these individuals talking about the fact that they gave back a watch … that might be the tip that we need.”

Click PLAY below to hear the full interview

Anyone who can help identify the men in the above vision is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.