Police are looking to trace five men after the incident in the Alum Rock area of Birmingham

This article is more than 2 years old

This article is more than 2 years old

A traffic warden was dragged from his moped, stamped on and kicked, in what has been described by police as “sickening violence”.

West Midlands police said the attackers then stole the vehicle from the victim, who had to be taken to hospital.

One 20-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of robbery, and the force has released pictures of five men they are looking to trace in relation to the incident, which happened in the Alum Rock area of Birmingham between 5pm and 5.30pm on Friday.

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A statement said the first three men were being treated as suspects, while the other two were believed to have information that could assist the investigation.

DS Tom Lyons said the warden was believed to have suffered non-serious injuries.

He said: “I was absolutely furious when I saw the footage. The level of violence used is truly shocking, and I know every right-minded person who views it will share that anger.

“We’ve already spoken to the victim. CCTV and other enquiries have already begun, but people in the community will know who these men are. I’d urge them to examine their conscience and do the right thing and give us the names.”

Police said the warden was “going about his job” before the robbery happened on Hartopp Road at the corner with College Road.