POLICE are investigating a string of muggings in Oxford which are believed to be linked.

The three incidents took place in the early hours of yesterday and Sunday, and involved men wielding hammers and screwdrivers.

The first happened at about 4am on Sunday when a car pulled up next to a 23-year-old man in Walton Street.

Two men got out and threatened the victim with a screwdriver before stealing his mobile phone and wallet.

At 12.30am yesterday, a 19-year-old man had his wallet and mobile phone stolen by two men who pushed him up against a wall in Capel Close.

Then at 2am yesterday, a 28-year-old man was threatened in Woodstock Road by two men carrying hammers. His wallet and mobile phone were stolen. Two other men were seen in the car which pulled up next to him.

Dc Rob Barratt said: “We believe the three robberies are linked. In all incidents the men were seen to get out of a dark-coloured hatchback.”

The two muggers were of mixed race, aged in their late teens and were wearing dark clothing with scarves covering their faces.

Police want to speak to anyone in the area at the time of the muggings or anyone who thinks they may have seen the car. Call Dc Barratt on 08458 505505 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.