A man in custody in Winnipeg is accused of attacking two women with a hammer in an attempt to steal their beer.

The women, aged 18 and 39, were injured in the upper body and were taken to hospital for medical treatment.

According to the Winnipeg Police Service, officers were on patrol near Dufferin Avenue and King Street around 2:15 a.m. CT on Friday when they heard screams.

"As the officers approached, they observed two females and one male involved in a physical confrontation," a statement from police said.

Police said the man was "armed with a hammer" when he confronted the women, and was "attempting to rob them of their beer."

"The suspect attempted to flee the area, however he was pursued and apprehended," police added.

A 26-year-old man is now in custody facing multiple charges of robbery with a weapon.