Three men were injured in an early-morning attack near a Liverpool city centre bar.
The trio in their 20s were assaulted in Seel Street by a number of men aged in their late teens or early 20s at around 2.50am on Saturday.
Emergency services attended the scene outside The Peacock bar and the men were all taken to hospital for treatment to facial injuries.
CCTV, witness and forensic enquiries are continuing while the victims have since been discharged.
Detective Inspector Judith Blease said: “This was a nasty, unprovoked attack on three men who were enjoying a night out in Liverpool city centre.
“It is fortunate that the victims were not more seriously hurt but we will be relentless in identifying those responsible and bringing them to justice.”
Anyone who has any information is asked to call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Information can also be provided via their online form.