A man demanded money and held a weapon, though to be a knife, against a woman in a robbery.
Police are investigating after the robbery was reported in Ransomes Way, Chelmsford.
A 19-year-old woman had returned home following an evening out and had gone outside to have a cigarette when she was approached by the suspect at about 2am this morning.
The man demanded money and held a weapon, thought to be a knife, against her.When she said she did not have any money, he ran off.
The victim suffered a scratch to her stomach and was left shaken by the incident.
Police carried out a search of the area and enquiries are ongoing to locate the suspect. He is described as black, about 6ft tall and wore black clothes, including a hooded top.
Anyone with information is asked to call Dc Harriet Ware at Chelmsford CID on 101.
Alternatively they can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org
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