AN ARMED man who lunged at officers with a knife is being hunted by Ealing police in connection with a series of knifepoint robberies in Acton.

Reports flooded in yesterday about two men who were threatening people with a knife and stealing their mobile phones on Hillcrest Road, W3.

Officer arrived at the scene at around 10am to find two men, one who sprung at police with the knife, but fortunately no one was injured.

A 20-year-old man was arrested for robbery and remains in custody while police are seeking the second man who ran off after attempting to attack officers.

Hussam El-Handi, 19, is wanted in connection with the robberies and the public have be warned not to approach him.

Detective Superintendent Robert Mahoney, Acting Borough Commander for Ealing, said: "We would like to speak to anyone who may have information on El-Handi's whereabouts.

"We believe he poses a significant danger to the public and we advise anyone who may have seen him or knows of his location not to approach him but call police on 999.

"It is important we track down this man before anyone is seriously injured." 

To remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

Picture courtesy of Met Police, with thanks