Warning over Sheffield Facebook trap set by violent robbers

The victims were attacked in three separate incidents on Ellesmere Road, police said

Three people have been attacked and injured after being lured into ambushes as part of a social media scam.

Each of the victims went to an address in Sheffield believing they would meet someone with a phone listed for sale on Facebook Marketplace, police said.

However, once in the address on Ellesmere Road a group of men attacked them and stole phones and wallets.

Anyone who had been offered a phone for collection from that address has been asked to contact police.

The series of scam attacks began in mid-September, with the victims being left with injuries including a broken nose, cuts and bruises, according to South Yorkshire Police.

'Upsetting and scary'

A force spokesperson said officers wanted people to be aware of the scam and to report any similar incidents.

PC Andrew Bellamy said: "We know incidents like this are really upsetting and scary for victims, and also concerning for local communities.

"That's why we're asking for the public to assist by passing on any information they may have about those involved."

PC Bellamy added that the force was "keen" to hear from anyone who had been approached by someone on Facebook Marketplace offering a phone for collection from the address in Burngreave.