Three men were arrested Tuesday after a shoplifting incident in Hilo turned violent.

Police responding to the Wal-Mart store on Maka`ala Street learned that three men had allegedly concealed merchandise on their person and left the store without paying. When confronted by store personnel outside, one of the men allegedly punched a male employee in the jaw, knocking him to the ground.

The three suspects then fled the scene but were found nearby by police and arrested.

On Wednesday, police charged Michael Thomas, 21, and Daniel Kapumanu, 18, with fourth-degree theft. Their bail was set at $250 each.

The third suspect, 19-year-old Ku Manuia, was charged with second-degree robbery and fourth-degree theft. His bail was set at $5,250.

All three were being held today at the Hilo cellblock pending a court appearance on Thursday.