Multiple suspects were taken into custody in connection with two violent robberies early Friday, according to Chicago police.
The first incident took place at around 12:25 a.m. in the first block of West Polk Street in the city’s South Loop, authorities said.
Officials said a 34-year-old man was walking on the sidewalk when he was approached by five males who threw him to the ground and began beating him.
The offenders took his backpack with two cell phones, glasses and miscellaneous items when they fled the scene, according to police.
The victim was treated on the scene by emergency personnel, officials said.
The second incident, which police said was believed to be connected to the first, happened about a half hour later, at around 1:08 a.m. on the city’s Near North Side.
A 21-year-old man was standing on the sidewalk in the 700 block of North Rush Street when an 18-year-old man took the victim’s cell phone and cash from his hand before running away, authorities said.
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The victim then chased the offender, according to police, and was beaten by five additional suspects. He sustained minor bruising to the face and refused medical attention, officials said.
The offenders fled on foot and were placed into custody, according to police. Further details, including their ages and identities, were not immediately available.
Charges were pending early Friday and the investigation remained ongoing.
