A teenager was robbed at sword-point by a gang at the side of the road.
The 15-year-old, who was selling goods, was on his own on the outskirts of Clacton.
A Volvo car pulled up with four people inside and one of the men jumped out and threatened the youngster with the sword.
An Essex Police spokesman said the raider ordered the teenager to hand over his bag of cash, which he did.
The man then got back into the car and the gang made their escape.
"Fortunately the 15-year-old was not injured in the incident and did not need medical treatment," said the spokesman.
"But he was was obviously shaken up and frightened by what had happened to him."
The robbery took place on Saturday at 4pm - just after it had got dark.
The police spokesman said that the sword used in the raid had a wooden handle.
The robber was about 25 years old and between 6ft to 6ft 2ins tall. He was of medium build and spoke with what the teenager described as a "strange and not local accent".
He wore a dark baseball cap and dark clothing.
The spokesman added the car used in the robbery was a dark old-style Volvo.
"We are investigating the incident and would like to hear from anyone who saw anything - or knows anything about this robbery which could help us - to come forward," he said.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Clacton CID on 01255 221312 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111
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