A MAN was tied up and scalded with boiling water by a four-man gang who stole thousands of pounds in cash from his home.

Police are investigating after the victim, believed to be in his early 20s, was assaulted by four men, who forced their way into the house in Fingringhoe Road, Colchester, late in the evening.

The men, who are understood to have been wearing balaclavas, also threatened him with a hammer.

They then went on to ransack the house and left with the large amount of cash.

It is believed the victim was tied up by the gang for about half an hour while they searched the house and had boiling water poured over him from his kettle.

Medics were not called to the scene and it is not known if the victim’s family took him to the hospital or if he was taken there by police, who were first on the scene.

An Essex Police Spokesman said the victim received treatment in hospital, but his injuries are not life-threatening or life-changing.

Lee Scordis (Lab), who represents Old Heath and the Hythe on Colchester Council, labelled the incident as a “shocking attack”

and called on residents to come forward with any information as soon as possible.

He said: “The police are now investigating what is an incredibly shocking, violent and horrific attack.

“It’s not only important that people report anything suspicious seen that day, but it’s also important that residents now keep an eye out to help each other.”

He said it was reassuring police were involved but added he hoped the incident is investigated “with the utmost seriousness”.

The violent raid happened just before 9.30pm on Wednesday and police are continuing to appeal for information.

Anyone with information should contact Colchester CID on 101 quoting crime reference number 42/182448/17.

Information can also be passed anonymously on 0800 555 111.