IPOH: Residents of Pasir Pinji and Pasir Puteh here are living in fear of a group of youths who not only rob but also use helmets and metal chains to hurt their victims.

At least five people have been injured with the robbers targeting people working at markets.

Higher Education, Science, Technology and Communication Committee chairman Thomas Su Keong Siong said the attacks, which began two weeks ago, had created so much fear that people were afraid to go out.

"The attacks have taken place near markets in both areas, either in the wee hours of the morning or around midnight," the Pasir Pinji assemblyman told reporters here yesterday.

The robbers, described as tall, burly young men on two motorcycles, are believed to have first attacked restaurant worker Fong Lee Kian, 47, on Aug 6 as he was returning home from supper at 11pm.

"They caught hold of me and started bashing my head with helmets and metal chains.

"Then, they took my wallet with my identity card and RM140 inside and fled," said Fong, who received 10 stitches.

On Aug 19, the robbers struck when old newspaper collector Foong Chew Kheong and his hawker friend Loo Hing Meh, both 62, were about to leave for work at 3.20am.

Foong sustained facial and body injuries while Loo received 30 stitches on his head.

The other victims included a vegetable seller and noodle deliveryman.

Su said no action had been taken by the police despite reports lodged by all five victims.