BALACLAVA-clad burglars burst into a house and attacked a man with a hammer.

The victim was watching television at just after 10pm on Monday (April 11) when six men forced their way into his house in Albert Road, close to Leyton Police Station.

As he tried to get up, two of the gang pinned him on the sofa and he was struck with a hammer.

The other gang members then searched his bedroom.

They left the property soon afterwards taking the victim's laptop and other personal belongings.

It is believed the gang drove away in a blue Ford Focus towards Norlington Road.

The 55-year-old victim suffered a swollen wrist, where he was hit with a hammer by a very dark skinned man, with a Somali accent.

He is described as being about 5ft 4ins, off small build and wore a dark top, dark trousers and had short curly hair.

The other man who held him down was also a dark-skinned black male, who spoke with an English accent and had short black hair.

He was about 5ft 11ins, of slim build, and wore a grey jacket, blue jeans and a black baseball cap.

The other four men wore black clothing and balaclavas but were not wearing any gloves.

Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Constable Keith O’Neill on 0203 276 0946. To remain anonymous call Crimstoppers on 0800 555 111.

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