Police in Hartley are appealing for witnesses after a woman was assaulted and robbed by a group of thugs in her own home yesterday evening.

Officers were called to a property in Merton Avenue on Monday, April 15 following reports that four people had barged their way into the victim's home and held her down before searching the property.

A quantity of jewellery was taken and the victim's mobile phone was deliberately smashed during the assault.

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She was not injured during the ordeal.

Speaking on the case, Detective Sergeant Ashley Bowles said: "This was a frightening ordeal for the victim and we are conducting a number of enquiries to find out who carried out this burglary.

"If anyone witnessed anything suspicious or has any information that will help us with our enquiries, please contact us."

Crime Scene Investigators have attended the scene and detectives conducted house to house enquiries. The investigation is ongoing.

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Witnesses or anyone with information are urged to call the appeal line on 01622 604100 quoting reference 46/72289/19.

Alternatively call the independent charity Crimestoppers in Kent anonymously on 0800 555111.