Men armed with paintball guns stormed two Sydney brothels on the same night, threatening staff before taking off with cash and mobile phones.

CCTV images released by NSW police shows two men – one armed with a firearm – entering a brothel on Birmingham Road, Villawood around 2am on Monday, January 15.

The men threatened employees, aiming the gun at a staff members head, before stealing cash and mobile phones.

During the incident, a 56-year-old man was assaulted. He sustained minor injuries to his arms and lip.

About an hour later, in a separate incident, three men – one armed with a firearm – entered another brothel on Lancaster Street, Ingleburn.

They threatened a 58-year-old male employee, before taking cash and fleeing the scene.

The incidents are believe to be linked, police say.

The men are seen in the footage wearing baggy clothing and are depicted as being of Pacific Islander appearance, aged in their late teens or early 20s, according to police.

Two paintball guns were seized during a search warrant in the Fairfield area, which are believed to have been used during the robberies. They are undergoing forensic examination.

As police inquiries continue, Strike Force Moogerah detectives have released CCTV footage and images of three men they believe may be able assist with inquiries.

Strike force detectives are appealing for anyone who recognises the men or has information relevant to the investigation to contact police.