Three armed thieves escaped yesterday, despite the motorbike they stole at gunpoint running out of petrol just 50 metres into their getaway.

The victim told police he was riding his moto home in the early hours when the robbers rode past waving guns and demanding the ride.

After one of the robbers took the moto and sped off into the distance – or at least towards the distance – it broke down.

Still waving weapons, the men ordered the victim away and walked their loot to freedom. KAMPUCHEA THMEY