A terrified seven-year-old boy was allegedly robbed of his bike by a masked man as he played near a basketball court in Sheffield.
South Yorkshire Police said the robbery happened on March 23 when a 6ft tall man, who had a black and white dog with him, approached the youngster.
The thug, who was wearing a balaclava and had a green coat with his hood up, then stole the black BMX from the child, Yorkshire Live reports.
Officers are now appealing for information and have asked anyone who witnessed the incident or has seen the bike for sale to get in touch.
A spokesperson for South Yorkshire Police said: "Local officers are appealing for information after a young child was reportedly robbed in Sheffield on Thursday.
"At 5.30pm, a seven-year-old was near the basketball court just off Woodrove Avenue when he was approached by a man wearing a balaclava.
"The man proceeded to take the child’s bike, which is described as a black BMX bike with red handlebars.
"The offender has been described as 6ft tall, of a stocky build, and wearing a balaclava, a green coat with their hood up, cap, dark trousers, and pink striped socks.
"They were walking a black and white Staffordshire bull terrier.
"Can you help? If you witnessed the incident or believe you have been offered the bike for sale, please contact us. The investigation number is 14/54869/23."
