POLICE have released CCTV images of a group of young men they would like to speak to following two “violent” armed robberies in Lynbrook on Thursday night.
The first incident occurred at 11.35pm when a 24-year-old Frankston man and his female friend were walking north along Paterson Drive.
Police said the pair turned east onto Lynbrook Boulevard and noticed a group of young men, described as Aboriginal or Islander appearance, standing at the intersection.
The group then followed the pair and confronted them, demanding cash and threatening to hurt the woman, police said.
Two of the men were armed with knives and the Frankston man handed over a small quantity of money and a phone.
The group then left the area, walking north along Paterson Drive.
Shortly before midnight, an 18-year-old Langwarrin man was walking his bike through the pedestrian tunnel at Lynbrook railway station when he was confronted by a man of Islander appearance.
Police said the man, armed with what appeared to be a wooden stake, blocked the victim’s path and demanded money from him.
The man had dumped his bike and run towards platform two at the station.
Police said as the victim reached the stairs he was struck on the head from behind, then picked up and forced to walk back to where he was first confronted.
The man was then assaulted by the offender along with two other males, who all ran from the scene shortly after, police said.
The victim sustained serious arm and head injuries and was taken to the Frankston Hospital.
Detectives from Transit Crime Investigation Unit (CIU) are investigating the incidents and at this stage believe the incidents are linked.
Transit CIU Senior Constable Michael Keane urged anyone with information to come forward.
“When you view the footage in full, it’s quite a violent attack and prolonged,” he said.
“We are appealing for the public to come forward.
“We’ve had no information come in yet.
“If you see something, say something.”
Police have released CCTV footage of a group of people they would like to speak to in relation to the incident.
Anyone with any information about the incidents is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppers.com.au.
