DETECTIVES are investigating after a man was punched in the face as a gang tried to steal his car keys in west Belfast.

The 41-year-old man was approached by six youths who demanded his car keys and threatened him with what is believed to be a pellet gun.

He was then punched in the face when he refused to hand over the keys.

The youths then made off on foot empty handed

Police have asked anyone who was in the area or could assist the investigation in any way to contact them on the non-emergency number 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800555111