A worker at an east end Kentucky Fried Chicken was injured in the first of two armed hold ups in the area on Wednesday night.

Hamilton Police say four men in dark clothing - black hoodies and balaclavas, went into the KFC at 45 Parkdale Avenue North a few minutes after 8:30 p.m.

Police say one of the suspects had a gun and demanded cash from the employee. An altercation took place which injured the staff member then the suspects fled the eatery.

Injuries were minor and the staff member was treated on scene by paramedics.

Less than 10 minutes later, five men with two guns went into Buds 'n Roses, a drug dispensary at 264 Kenilworth Ave. N., demanding cash and product. Police say the suspects made off with an undisclosed amount of cash and a quantity of marijuana.

No one was injured in that case.

The BEAR unit is investigating both robberies.

Detectives are investigating whether the two incidents are related.