After initially fleeing, one of the thieves returned to the home with a lump of wood and tried to assault the man a second time.

Police have launched an investigation into the bizarre home robbery.

Police said the Tennant Creek disturbed two people inside his home at 3.45am on Sunday.

The two unknown offenders began searching his home when confronted by the resident.

"The pair attempted to flee when the man grabbed hold and restrained one offender while calling out to neighbours to assist," a police spokesman said.

"The offender broke free and ran into the back yard where he armed himself with a rake and used it to assault the man before jumping the fence into a neighbouring yard."

When one of the thieves returned with a length in an attempt to assault the man, he went back inside the house and called police.

The thieves stole some cash and cigarettes.

The resident suffered injuries to his right arm during the assault.

Police have conducted door knocks in the area of Blain Street and are seeking public assistance from anyone who may CCTV footage of the area to contact them on 131 444.

If you have information which may assist with investigations please call 131 444 or report it anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 and reference PROMIS number 9448055.

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