Brighton robbery: Man tells woman he has coronavirus before attacking her

Sussex Police said the 54-year-old woman was walking her dog around 6.30pm on Sunday (April 12), when she became aware of a man walking closely behind her.

A spokesman said: “The man told the victim he had Covid-19 before demanding she hand over her mobile phone.

“The suspect then picked up a branch and swung it at the victim, causing a deep cut to her left arm and a cut to the bridge of her nose.””

Police said the suspect is described as black, approximately 5ft 9in tall, of medium build, with short hair in an afro style.

He was wearing baggy black jeans, a baggy black t-shirt and a red face mask, confirmed a spokesman.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, saw anything suspicious in the area at the time or who may have any further information, is asked to contact Sussex Police online or by calling 101 quoting serial 1474 of 12/04.