Two armed robbers are on the run after hijacking and robbing a man at gunpoint on the Kingston/ Ham borders on Saturday morning.

The victim was sprayed in the face with ammonia during the ordeal and police are now desperate to trace witnesses to the attack which took place close to Latchmere House Prison at 8.25am.

The robbery happened at the junction of Church Road and Ham Gate Avenue when the victim, who was driving a green jeep, found the road blocked by two cars.

The robbers got out of the cars and sprayed the victim with ammonia.

They then threatened him with a shotgun before stealing his briefcase, which police believe contained a small amount of cash.

One of the cars used in the robbery, which was fitted with forged registration plates, was later found abandoned in Langham House Close.

Police would like to hear from anyone who saw two men leaving the silver Vauxhall Calibre in Langham Close.

Detective Superintendent Dave Taylor, who is leading the investigation, said: "We would like anyone who saw anything to come forward. At the moment we cannot rule out a link with the prison -- this was an extremely professional set-up."

Latchmere House Prison governor Ted Butt said: "I am aware of the incident and I know the police are making inquiries and it is up to them to establish whether there is a link with the prison or not."

Anyone with information should contact DS Dave Taylor in confidence on 0181 943 9299.

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