A POLICE appeal has been launched after a victim was "assaulted and threatened" during a robbery in Basildon. 

Essex Police has released an image of two people they would like to speak to in connection with a reported robbery. 

The robbery reportedly happened in Sandon Road, in Basildon, at around 3.30pm on Sunday. 

The victim reported he had been approached by two males, assaulted and threatened, before handing over his phone and backpack. 

Essex Police say one of the suspects was described as a white male, aged around 18, around 6ft tall, of medium build, with ginger hair and beard, wearing a black tracksuit. 

The other was described as a white male, aged around 16 or 17, of slim build, with short brown hair and wearing a grey tracksuit.

Officers have urged any witnesses or anyone with information to come forward. 

A spokesman said: "Detectives investigating a robbery in Basildon are appealing for information to identify two people. 

"We need to speak to the two people pictured in connection with a reported robbery in Sandon Road, Basildon, at around 3.30pm on Sunday, March 17. 

"Anyone with any information, or footage, which could assist our investigation is asked to come forward. 

"Please quote reference 42/43330/24."