North West Metro Regional Crime Squad detectives are investigating after an 18-year-old man was assaulted and robbed in Kensington on 17 April.
The Kensington man was walking along Gatehouse Drive with a friend when five youths, perceived to be African in appearance, have approached him and asked for his cigarette about 12.20am.
The victim refused and walked away however the group has followed him.
He's handed over the cigarette to one of the males, who has then punched him and he's fallen to the ground unconscious.
The offenders have continued to assault him while he lay on the ground and stole his iPhone and wallet.
The victim's friend, an 18-year-old Port Arlington man tried to go to his aid however was held back by two males.
He has managed to break free and seek help.
The victim sustained serious facial injuries that required surgery.
A short time later the victim's bank cards were used by three youths, a girl and two boys, to purchase cigarettes from a Smithfield Road service station about 1.15pm.
Police have released CCTV and images of a number of youths who police believe can assist with their enquiries into the use of the stolen bank cards.
The first man is perceived to be of Asian appearance, 15-17-years-old, with a skinny build and long black hair, wearing a blue hooded Nike windcheater with black tracksuit pants and black shoes.
The second man is perceived to be of Asian appearance, 14-16-years-old with short black hair and wearing black pants, black hooded windcheater and grey undershirt.
The third offender was female and about 14-16-years-old with long black hair and wearing a blue jumper with white stripes along the sleeves, grey shorts and white sneakers.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
