Schoolboys have been threatened at knifepoint in a spate of robberies near a Rainham school.
Six robberies took place on teenage boys, aged 13 to 17, in Rainham Road, Wennington Road, Wartz Lane and Lambs Lane South near Harris Academy Rainham.
The robberies took place between January 12 and February 5, police said.
One of the offences was on a bus and each time the teenagers were threatened with violence. A knife was shown in some cases.
Seven mobile phones were stolen and police said they will station officers in the area and the start and end of the school day.
Superintendent Simon Hutchison said: “We fully understand the concern from parents in the Rainham area following this series of mobile phone robberies, particularly as the suspects have threatened violence.
"We are listening to those concerns, a thorough investigation is being conducted, and that all six offences reported so far are being treated as a linked series," he added.
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In all cases, the suspects had asked the teenagers for their mobile phone and PIN number, but none were injured.
Police said a description of the suspects was not available at this time.
“It is extremely rare for a series of robberies to take place in such a short space of time and in such a small area," Supt Hutchison said.
He added that pupils can reach out for support from safety officers.
“As our investigation continues, we are working closely with the school through our dedicated schools officer, we are deploying uniformed officers to the area at the start and end of the school day.
"[They will be] supported by our safer transport colleagues and we encourage anyone who sees anything suspicious to approach those officers," he added.
Harris Academy Rainham has been contacted for comment.
Anyone who can help police is asked to call 101 or post on ‘X’ @MetCC quoting 4483/12JAN24.
People can also provide information anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Young people who have information about violence or knife crime can visit www.fearless.org to pass on information anonymously – your I.P address will not be traced.
Fearless is part of Crimestoppers and independent of police.
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