A MAN and woman were injured when thieves raided their address in the early hours of Wednesday morning in Ferndown.

At approximately 1.20am on Wednesday, June 1, it is alleged that two men forced their way into an address in New Road, slapped a female occupant around the face and demanded money.

A man, who was also inside the address, was then reportedly assaulted. It is alleged one of the suspects was in possession of a kitchen knife. The man sustained cuts to his hands during the incident.

Three mobile phones, keys and a silver Peugeot 208 were stolen during the incident. The car was later located.

A 20-year-old man from Orpington was arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary with intent and grievous bodily harm with intent. A second 20-year-old man from Catford in London was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm with intent.

They both remain in custody.

Police investigating the aggravated burglary are now appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Detective Inspector Nicky Jenkins, of Dorset County CID, said: “An investigation is underway into this incident, including establishing whether this address was specifically targeted.

“I am appealing to anyone who was in the area at the relevant time and witnessed any suspicious activity to please contact me.

“I am also keen to hear from any residents or motorists who may have captured the incident, or a silver Peugeot 208 being driven in the area, on home CCTV or dashcam.”

Officers from the local neighbourhood policing team will be continuing their patrols in the area and can be approached with any community concerns.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/contact, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55220086926.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.