Three men have been charged following a series of suspected street robberies in which a metal pole and hockey stick were allegedly used as weapons.

One victim was reported to have had a knife held to his throat during one of the alleged attacks.

In total, it is alleged seven people were either robbed or were victims of an attempted robbery on the same evening between 8.50pm and around 10.15pm.

In Snodland, four victims were reportedly targeted as they were walking in areas of Birling Road, Sharnal Lane and Constitution Hill.

Further offences were reported in Rochester across Smith Street, Dale Road, Central Parade, and The Tideway.

The victims, aged between 13 and 29, reported being approached by two suspects wearing balaclavas, before demands were made for cash and items including phones.

A further suspect was said to have been seen in a vehicle.

In one of the incidents, it is alleged a knife was held to the throat of a man in Constitution Hill.

Victims reported other weapons were brandished, including a metal pole and hockey stick.

Patrols arrested three suspects within hours of the offences being reported.

Samuel Phillips, 21, of Southwell Road, Rochester, AJ Katnoria, 24, of Rivenhall Way, Hoo, and Ben Hoey, 33, of Concord Avenue, Chatham were all later charged with four counts of robbery, three counts of attempted robbery and with assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Phillips was also charged with possessing cannabis.

They appeared before Medway Magistrates’ Court today and were remanded in custody. Their next hearing will be at Maidstone Crown Court on February 12.

An investigation is being led by North Kent CID and anyone with information, including other potential victims, should contact Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/7098/24.