An 18-year-old was attacked with a knife before his bag was stolen.
The man was approached by a group of teenagers in the Roding Valley Nature Reserve near to Roding Road at around 6pm on Wednesday, August 8.
Three to four members of the group, one who was seen to have a small knife, then assaulted the man before stealing his bag.
The group then left in the direction of Oakwood Hill.
The victim was taken to hospital with non-serious injuries.
Witnesses or anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the area around the time of the incident, are asked to contact Loughton CID on 101, quoting reference 42/114343/18.
Information can also be given completely anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org
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