A MAN was "punched in the face” and threatened with a “large knife" during a robbery in Laindon.

Essex Police have launched an investigation into the robbery on Saturday in Elizabeth Way, Laindon.

Officers say the victim was approached by two men.

One of the men threatened him with a large knife before stealing his gold chain and his phone.

The man then assaulted the victim by punching him in the face.

No arrests have been made at this stage, but inquiries are ongoing.

Alex Harrison, Labour councillor responsible for Lee Chapel North, said knife crime must be tackled.

He said: “I am very concerned to hear this, but unfortunately this is far from the first instance of knife crime in Lee Chapel North.

“We urgently need more visible policing on our estates to deter crimes like this.

“Criminals cannot be allowed to get away with knife crime.

“I would ask anyone who knows any information to contact the police so we can bring these criminals to justice.”

Essex Police have urged anyone with information to come forward as they continue to investigate the robbery.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “We are currently investigating a robbery, which was reported on Saturday, 4 May on Elizabeth Way in Laindon.

“The victim was approached by two men. One of the men threatened him with a large knife before stealing his gold chain and his phone.

“This man has then assaulted the victim by punching him in the face.

“Inquiries remain ongoing, and no arrests have been made at this stage.

“Anyone with any information is asked to contact us, quoting incident number 606 of 4 May.”

Alternatively, you can contact the independent crimefighting charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.