Armed robbers hit Chanel boutique in central Paris

Paris - Three robbers with pump-action shotguns raided a luxury Chanel boutique in central Paris on Thursday, police sources said.

The robbery took place in the city's chic Avenue Montaigne, home to many luxury stores, which is just off the Champs-Elysees.

The robbery was confirmed by staff at the shop, who gave no details about what was stolen.

"I saw some guys come out, wearing masks," a witness told AFP on condition of anonymity.

"Without thinking, I put myself in front of their car. Then I saw one of them was carrying a gun so I left." Another Chanel boutique on the same street was hit by thieves last month who rammed the storefront with a 4x4 car in the early hours of the morning.

In that incident, the robbers escaped by scooter after stealing several luxury handbags, police said.