POLICE are currently investigating a series of knifepoint robberies in Loughton on Tuesday.

Officers were first called to Chigwell Lane shortly before 4:52pm following reports of a boy being robbed by a group. 

The group of five men are said to have approached the victim wearing balaclavas and threatened him before stealing his designer coat and bag, it is alleged.

Shortly afterwards, a further report came in close to The Broadway of a group of men being in possession of a knife. 

A spokesman said: “At around 4:55pm, Essex Police received more reports of two victims being approached and shown a knife before being asked what was in their bags. 

“Nothing was taken during this incident, but the victims were left shaken. 

“These incidents are being treated as linked. No arrests have been made at this stage but enquiries are ongoing and officers are continuing patrols in the area. 

“Investigating officers are appealing to anyone who may have seen anything to get in contact.”