Police hunt two men after terrifying knife-point robberies in Hendon alleyway

Crime reporter(wp/es):

Detectives are hunting two men following a spate of terrifying knife-point robberies in a north-west London alleyway.

Scotland Yard said at least four people had been threatened with three robbed of cash and their mobile phones in West View, Hendon over two days in December.

Police say they want to identify two suspects following the linked robberies which took place in an alleyway that runs between Brampton Grove and Babington Road.

On Friday, December 16, a 31-year-old man was approached by two men and threatened with a knife at 7.20pm. The men fled the scene when he handed over his phone and wallet.

Four minutes later, the thieves struck again when a 34-year-old victim was targeted as he made his way through the same alleyway. He also handed over cash and his phone before the men ran off in the direction of Hendon Tube station.

Five days later, a 27-year-old man was approached in the alleyway just after 10.30am by a man armed with a knife but managed to flee without handing over any valuables.

However, hours later a 23-year-old man gave his wallet and mobile phone when he was confronted by two men in the alleyway before they made off from the area.

None of the victims were hurt in the robberies.

Detectives from Barnet CID are investigating and have appealed for witnesses to come forward or anyone with CCTV which overlooks the alleyway.

No arrests have been made.

Investigators described the first suspect as a man with Mediterranean appearance, aged between 18 and 25, 6ft tall of a slim build.

The second man is believed to be a light skinned black man, aged between 18 and 25, 5ft 10ins tall, of slim build with a moustache.

Detective Constable Jim Christie, from Barnet CID, said: "The victims in these four incidents had simply been going about their daily business when they were threatened, and on three occasions made to hand over personal possessions.

 “It is of paramount importance that the suspects are caught as soon as possible and I am urging anyone who has any information - no matter how small - to get in contact."