A MAN was dragged out of his car, punched and robbed during a terrifying attack in a shopping village car park.

The victim reported being set upon by four males after they drove up to him in a Range Rover in Tollgate Centre Shopping Park, Stanway.

The suspects then dragged the shopper out of his car and stole his wallet, throwing it into their vehicle.

A member of the violent group then punched the victim in the face twice before driving off and throwing the wallet back out of the vehicle.

Gazette: Shocking - the attack took place at Tollgate Centre Shopping ParkShocking - the attack took place at Tollgate Centre Shopping Park (Image: Newsquest)

The shocking incident took place between 9.30pm and 10pm on August 31, Essex Police confirmed.

“[The victim] reported four males had taken his wallet and struck him in the face, before driving away and throwing his wallet out of the window,” said a force spokesman.

“Thankfully, the victim cancelled his cards and no money was stolen.

“We are appealing for any witnesses, or anyone with relevant footage, to come forward.”

Gazette: Attack - the victim was set upon by four men at TollgateAttack - the victim was set upon by four men at Tollgate (Image: Newsquest)

Stanway councillor Lesley Scott-Boutell said she was “shocked” to hear about the incident.

“I want to reassure residents that Stanway – and the shopping park – is a safe place to be,” said the councillor.

“I get the crime reports every week and Stanway nearly always has the least amount of incidents. Even the ones there are mostly low-level.

“Of course, sometimes things do happen here but they do everywhere. What I would say is that incidents like this are incredibly rare here.

Gazette: Reassurance - Stanway councillor Lesley Scott-BoutellReassurance - Stanway councillor Lesley Scott-Boutell (Image: Newsquest)

“We have got a good, proactive community policing team in Stanway who do a great job in keeping all residents and visitors safe.”

The councillor also offered her best wishes to the victim of the attack.

She added: “My thoughts are with the person involved. I hope he didn’t suffer any serious injuries and that he isn’t too shaken up.”

Any information should be put to the police by calling 101.

Anonymous reports can be made by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.