TWO youths were charged on Thursday with assaulting a China national during a robbery on Wednesday.

Muhammad Nabil Rashid, 18, a full-time national serviceman, and Muhammad Faizul Hamzah, 17, a student, are alleged to have robbed technician Guo Jin Qun, 22, of his $600 cellphone, cash of $8.50 and other items opposite Damai Primary School on Bedok Reservoir Road.

During the alleged hold-up, they are said to have punched the victim's head and kicked his body.

Both were remanded at Bedok for further investigation as they are believed to be involved in similar cases.

They will be back in court on April 3.

If convicted, they can be jailed between five and 20 years and caned not less than 12 strokes.