State and local authorities have arrested two men and are searching for three others in connection with a string of armed robberies in Richmond and McDuffie counties.

Deputies in Richmond County arrested Jocques Dickerson and Julian Johnson, both 18, on Thursday.

During a traffic stop near Augusta Mall on Thursday morning, three men jumped from a Honda Accord and ran, but not before one of them, later identified as Torrence Marquis Haskell, 19, gave the deputy his driver's license, said Richmond County sheriff's Lt. Scott Peebles. A short time later, Mr. Dickerson reported the Accord stolen.

"We believe they basically ran back to him and said, 'Hey man, you need to report your car stolen cause a cop just pulled us over and we ran,' " Lt. Peebles said.

Clothing worn in the robberies, cash and several cartons of cigarettes were found in the car.

The men are suspected of robbing at least two convenience stores in Augusta. Police are investigating four armed robberies of convenience stores, taking place July 18, 19, Monday and Wednesday.

The latest robbery occurred in Thomson, when two armed men entered Circle K on Washington Road, Lt. Peebles said.

Authorities are still searching for Mr. Haskell; Thomas Bernard Patterson, 19; and Derrick Stubbs, 21, on robbery and firearm-related charges. Mr. Stubbs and Mr. Patterson are considered armed and dangerous, Lt. Peebles said. They have been known to frequent hotels in the Thomson and Warrenton area, he said.

"We have provided photographs and aliases to the bus lines throughout South Carolina and Georgia because they suspect they will try to leave the area via bus to Chicago or somewhere else," he said.

Anyone with information can call the Richmond County Sheriff's Office at (706) 821-1080 or the Thomson Police Department at (706) 595-2166. Callers can remain anonymous.