Two 18-year-olds have surrendered to police after their attempt to rob a jewelry store in Tokyo was thwarted by an employee.

The attack took place on Sunday night in the capital's Ueno district. Three assailants wearing full-face motorcycle helmets forced their way into the shop and began smashing the showcases with a crowbar.

The scene was recorded by a bystander. A heavy-set employee is seen confronting the would-be robbers with a long two-pronged pole. He repeatedly hits their getaway motorcycle with the device, forcing the assailants to flee empty-handed on foot.

Police say the two 18-year-old men turned themselves in on Monday night. They were arrested for alleged robbery and an assault that left one employee slightly injured.

Investigators say the two appear to be acquainted with each other, and are admitting that they carried out the attack. Police are searching for the third assailant.