A man attempting to rob a bookstore was overpowered and beaten by a gang of women after threatening to kill a customer with what turned out to be a mobile phone.

The incident occurred in the city of Mar del Plata, Argentina, on Friday, 9th May.

The assailant entered the bookstore located at the intersection of Cerrito and Rosales streets, posing as a customer inquiring about cigarettes.

After observing the store's layout and staff, he suddenly grabbed a female customer from behind, pressing an object against her back and threatening to kill her if the employees did not hand over the day's takings.

The object was later identified as a mobile phone, not a weapon.

The customer, identified as Rebeca, realised the assailant was unarmed and managed to free herself.

She alerted the employees, who, along with Rebeca, confronted the man.

The four women pursued him as he attempted to flee, ultimately subduing him with physical force inside the store.

They then forced him outside, where neighbours, alerted by the commotion, assisted in restraining him until police arrived.

The man was taken into custody and is facing charges related to the attempted robbery.

The women involved expressed no regret for their actions, stating that adrenaline and anger over the attempted crime spurred their response.