TEENAGERS are being targeted by a gang attacking them for fashionable mobile phones.

Police warn the robbers could strike again after two serious incidents involving an 18-year-old in Sandbach and a group of young men at Haslington.

Using a stolen red Rover 420 car, which was later found abandoned, the gang toured streets looking for youngsters to target.

Their victims were left 'deeply distressed' and one received injuries to his face when he refused their demands for phones and cash.

Now detectives have released an e-fit of one of the three young men wanted in connection with the attacks.

They struck in quiet residential areas and are believed to be from the Sand-bach, Haslington or Crewe area. DC Stuart Williams, of the Congleton Specialist Investigation Unit, said: 'These offenders are preying on young lads, targeting them for their mobile phones and wallets.

'They are within the same age range as the victims and spoke with a local accent.

'They are proving a menace and we are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.'

The first incident took place in Queen's Drive at Sandbach. An 18-year-old was walking past the Rover, with three men inside, when one pounced.

When he refused to hand over his phone, he was restrained and it was taken. A second man got out and took his wallet.

In a second incident the car approached a group of friends on Crewe Road, Haslington. Two men got out and demanded phones. One friend was assaulted when he refused.

The violence frightened the lads who ran off after handing over what cash they had.

DC Williams added: 'The offenders are described as white, aged between 17 and 25, and with local accents.

'One was wearing a dark hooded top and baseball cap, the other a white T-shirt and tracksuit bottoms.

'We are appealing for witnesses who may have seen the red Rover 420 or any of its occupants to contact us.'

Anyone with information can phone DC Williams on 01244 613535, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.