Three women who were threatened by a pair of yobs armed with a hammer and riding a stolen moped are being urged to come forward by police.
At 3pm a woman walking in Regent Hill, Brighton, had her path blocked by two youths on a black-and-white moped, one of whom produced a hammer.
No direct threats were made and the presence of two passers-by meant the woman was able to continue safely on her way.
Some 15 minutes later two youths believed to be the same suspects entered Costa Coffee in nearby Western Road in an aggressive search for two young women who had sought refuge there.
But again the women were not harmed and the youths left.
A short time later their unattended moped was found by police in Regent Hill and was confirmed as having been recently stolen.
Both youths were wearing tracksuits. When they were with the moped they also wore distinctive black and neon yellow crash helmets.
Detective Sergeant Chris Lane said: “It’s vital we speak to the three women involved in these incidents and we’d ask them to get in touch without delay. We’d also welcome calls from anyone who witnessed either of these incidents or who have other relevant information.”
Contact can be made online or by phoning 101, quoting serial 757 of 12/02. Alternatively, please contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, telephone 0800 555 111.
