Harwich: Investigation into linked attempted robberies

We are investigating two attempted robberies in Harwich which may be linked.

In the first incident, it was reported a 14 year-old boy was approached by someone wearing a balaclava in Cliff Park between 5pm and 5.50pm on Monday 13 March.

The was then told to hand over his phone, threatened and assaulted.

The victim managed to get away but his earpods were taken.

In the second incident, which took place in Heron Way near to Main Road between 8.10pm and 8.15pm, a 16 year-old boy and a 15 year-old girl were approached by someone wearing a balaclava who told the boy to hand over his phone.

When he refused he was assaulted but managed to get away.

The girl also refused to hand over her phone.

If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.

Please quote the crime reference number 42/45489/23 in relation to the first incident and the crime reference number 42/45698/23 and 42/47321/23 in relation to the second.

You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm.

Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services.

Alternatively you can call us on 101.

In an emergency always call 999.

If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity @Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.