Detectives investigating a violent violent burglary have released chilling images of two people they need to identify.

The shocking incident took place at 8.30pm on Saturday when two men forced their way into an address in St Augustine’s Avenue, in Southend. 

The thugs, who were wearing bike helmets, struck two women, who were inside the property at the time, with what has been described as a small black handgun before stealing jewellery and a handbag.

The Echo initially reported this incident on Sunday but detectives continue to appeal for information.

Since Essex Police launched an investigation, they have now released two images of men they wish to speak to in connection with the horrific attack.

The CCTV images show two men dressed head to toe in black with black bike helmets concealing their faces.

Despite their identities being obscured, detectives are still keen to hear from anyone who may have seen them in the area.

Det Sgt Steve Robson, from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: “I need anyone who saw these two people in or around the St. Augustine’s Avenue area on Saturday night to call us.

“You might not be able to recognise their faces but you may have seen people dressed likes in the moments before or after the burglary.

“You may have seen what vehicle they were using and in what direction they were travelling.

“All these pieces of information are really important to help us find and identify those involved.

“This was a distressing attack which targeted vulnerable members of our community.

“It doesn’t matter how small or insignificant you think the piece of information you have maybe, contact us and let us decide.”

The women, who are both in their 70s, were taken to hospital and treated for non-life threatening injuries but have been left shaken by the attack.

If you saw anything, have any CCTV or dash cam footage, or any other information please call Essex Police on 101 quoting incident 1369 of 20 July.

Alternatively, you can contact independent crimefighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

You can also share information online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information