Highway robbers attacked a motorist after they rammed into the back of his van.
The driver needed plastic surgery on his face after he was hit with an unknown object, cutting his mouth.
He was followed by a couple driving a small blue car, possibly a Ford Orion, on the A133, near Clacton, as he made his way to Colchester at 5pm on Saturday.
As he passed between the Clacton and Weeley roundabouts, his blue Ford Transit was rammed from the rear and the driver stopped, thinking it was an accident.
When he pulled over, the couple threatened then attacked him with the unknown object, forcing him to hand over a cash box, his credit cards and a mobile phone.
The victim was taken to Colchester General Hospital with concussion, a cut face and shock. He was later transferred to Ipswich Hospital for plastic surgery on his mouth.
Insp Andy Hooke, of Clacton police, said: "They followed it and bumped it from behind and the person stopped, thinking that it was a routine accident.
"This was a very serious incident and we would encourage all the witnesses to come forward.
"I would also remind people, please do not stop for any vehicles that try to flag you down, unless clearly marked as a police vehicle."
The man is described as white, about 6ft and in his 30s.
The woman is described as being 5ft 6in, of slight build, with a slim face and pale complexion, with dark collar-length hair in an unkempt condition.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Clacton police station on 01255 221312.
Published Monday, February 24, 2003
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