Couple attacked by knifepoint bag snatchers near east London Tube station

A couple in their 60s are in hospital after an armed gang tried to snatch the woman’s bag outside a row of shops in east London.

The female was threatened with a knife and her husband pushed to the ground by the group of male attackers.

Police were called to reports of a robbery in Heathway, Dagenham, near the Tube station, at 6.45pm on Thursday.

At the scene, the couple said they had been approached by offenders who asked for money and cigarettes before trying to take the woman’s possessions.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: “Both received hospital treatment for injuries that were not life-threatening.

“At this early stage there has been no arrest.

“Enquiries are ongoing.”