A young man in north Essex was approached by three people, threatened with a suspected knife and punched in the face before his bike was stolen along with some cash, it is alleged.
Essex Police said the alleged robbery happened at around 3.30am on Sunday in Alton Park Road, Clacton, near to the junction with Ford Road.
The victim, an 18-year-old man, was on his bike when he is said to have been approached by the trio.
Police are appealing for information and particularly want to speak to a member of the public who was driving past in a large family car when they stopped to speak to the victim.
Officers are also looking for anyone who might recognise the bike – a blue Muddy Fox mountain bike – or have been offered it for sale.
Two men and a woman have been arrested on suspicion of robbery and released on bail until Monday, October 2.
People with information are asked to contact Dc Rob Coltman at Clacton CID on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here