A COLCHESTER councillor has condemned a knifepoint robbery which happened in broad daylight near a popular park.
Police say the victim was by Riverside Walk, near Colchester city centre, when he was approached by three men at about 1.30pm on Sunday.
The gang's faces were covered and one of them was riding a bicycle.
The attackers threatened their shocked victim with a knife before stealing his designer bag and a coat and then fleeing the scene.
Riverside Walk runs alongside the River Colne near Colchester's Castle Park. The incident happened close to the alleyway which runs parallel to Cowdray Avenue.
Colchester councillor Steph Nissen, who represents the Castle ward where the incident occurred, said: "Everyone has the right to walk around and enjoy our city without the threat of violence.
"This was a brazen and appalling crime, to do so in daylight cannot be allowed to go unpunished. This could so easily have had a tragic ending and my thoughts are with the victim.
"If you have any information, please do contact Essex Police or Crimestoppers. Information could lead to the arrest of the perpetrators.
"As a community we must send a strong message that we will not tolerate this horrendous behaviour. Serious and violent crime have no place in our city."
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Detectives are appealing for witnesses, including the members of the public who helped the victim, or anyone with information to come forward.
Speaking yesterday, an Essex Police spokesman said: "Detectives are investigating a robbery in Colchester, which occurred yesterday.
"The victim was along Riverside Walk at around 1.30pm on Sunday when they were approached by three men, who threatened him with a knife.
"All of the suspects were wearing face coverings with one of them riding a bike. They stole items including a designer bag and coat.
"The victim was assisted by members of the public who called the police."
The spokesman added: "We are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed anything or have any further information to contact us.
"We are particularly asking those members of the public who were at the scene to contact us."
Anyone with information is urged to contact Essex Police on 101, quoting crime reference number 42/54374/23.
You can also use the force's online Live Chat service or contact the independent Crimestoppers charity, by visiting their website or calling 0800 555111.
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