Police are investigating several violent robberies across Hamilton which are believed to be linked.
In the first of five similar incidents to have occurred in less than two weeks, a 21-year-old man was assaulted at 3:30 in the morning on Saturday, September 14th, by two men who proceeded to steal his wallet and mobile phone.
The robbery occurred at the corner of May Street and Maitland Road, Islington, not far from Hamilton's popular Beaumont Street entertainment precinct.
The following morning, a 55-year-old man and his 27-year-old son were walking home through Gregson Park around 1am when two unknown men threatened and assaulted them, inflicting a head wound to the younger man and knocking his father unconscious for a short period of time.
Three more attacks were reported during the early hours of Saturday and Sunday, September 21st and 22nd.
On Saturday, a 29-year-old man was assaulted by four men as he left work around 1:30 in the morning.
An hour later, two men were attacked and robbed by three unknown men as they walked through Gregson Park.
At 1:30am on Sunday, a woman was approached from behind by two men attempting to steal her handbag at the intersection of Cleary and Samdon Streets. The would-be thieves were unsuccesful and fled empty handed.
Detectives believe the incidents are linked and have released images of three men they believe can assist with investigations.
All are described as being Caucasian in appearance, aged between 18-25, and wearing dark clothing at the time of the attacks.
Newcastle City Police District Crime Manager, Detective Chief Inspector Scott Parker, said it was concerning these incidents occurred in such a short period of time.
“These crimes appear opportunistic in nature, and we intend to find those responsible in a swift manner."
Anyone who believes they have information which could help detectives track down the thieves is urged to contact Newcastle Police Station on 4929 0999 or to call Crime Stoppers.
