Thugs threatened to stab a man with a glass bottle after he told them he did not have any cigarettes.

British Transport Police (BTP) detectives have launched an investigation after the victim was threatened at Strood station.

Officers have released CCTV images of two men they want to speak to about the incident, which took place around 8.20am on Sunday, 10 October.

The 31-year-old was followed by two men from a replacement bus service which had travelled from Gravesend.

DC Bob Gee said: “One of the men approached him and asked for a cigarette. When he said he didn’t have any, the man was threatened with a glass bottle and told he would be stabbed if he did not hand over his property.

“The victim dropped his rucksack, and ran from the underpass. The men were seen on CCTV taking items from the bag.”

DC Gee added: “We are following a number of leads including interviewing witnesses but at this stage, I am appealing for members of public who may have seen something to come forward.

“We are particularly keen to speak to these two men, who we believe have information that could help the investigation. We would also like to hear from anyone who recognises them, as a matter of urgency.”

• Anyone with information should contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40, quoting log B10/SSUB of22/10/14. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.