THIEVES in balaclavas broke into a house in Banbury before demanding money and drugs.

The four men are thought to be in their twenties and one of them is believed to have had a knife which was not used against the victim.

The incident happened at around 9.50pm on Sunday, March 8 when they rang the doorbell of a house in Gilkes Yard.

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When the occupant did not answer, one of the men forced entry by kicking open the front door.

All four men entered the property making demands for money and drugs before stealing two mobile phones - which were later recovered from a nearby garden - and a laptop.

The group then left the property and ran in the direction of Broughton Road, turning left towards Bath Road.

Thames Valley Police is now appealing for witnesses.

The four offenders were described as Asian or black men, in their twenties, all around 5ft 7ins tall and of slim build.

They were all wearing black hooded tops, black jogging bottoms and black racing driver style balaclavas.

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Investigating officer Detective Constable Claire Rennie based at Banbury police station said: “This was a frightening experience for the victim.

“I am appealing for any witnesses, or anyone who may have information about this incident, to please come forward.

“I would also ask any residents or motorists who were in the local area around the time of this burglary to check any CCTV or dash-cam footage in case it may have captured something that could assist with the investigation.

“Anyone with information can contact the police by calling the non-emergency number 101, or make a report online quoting reference 43200079394.

“Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”