A FIVE–YEAR-OLD boy was mugged of a smart phone outside a chemist in Southend.

His disabled mum, 45, also received heavy bruising after being shoved in her mobility scooter, as the Huawei phone was snatched from her child’s hands.

Her son was next to her mobility scooter, as they were targeted by five men by the traffic lights outside Chemist @ Southend in the Queensway, on the corner of Short Street.

His mum, who didn’t want to be named, said: “I was in shock, I panicked and froze. My son was screaming and crying.

“He’s only five, he now doesn’t want to play outside now and he’s worried that he’ll be kidnapped.”

Three suspects were aged in their 40s or 50s, while the other two were in their twenties.

She added: “One of the blokes had a distinctive smell, damp and mouldy, and I can’t get it out of my head.

“I’ve been out looking for them every day since.

“They gave me bruising when they pushed me onto two wheels, which doesn’t help my artery problem.

“I’m seriously ill - I’ve also got epilepsy and suspected cancer.”

Friends of the victim posted on Facebook: “There is nothing worse than mugging disabled people.

“It’s disgusting.”

Another posted: “A new low has been reached by stealing a phone from a five-year-old.”

The woman further added: “I’ve only had the phone seven months and I can’t afford to buy a new one.”

The stolen phone is a black 2018 Huawei smartphone with the IME of 865802041436919.

A spokesperson from Essex Police stated: “We are investigating following reports of a robbery in Short Street, Southend.

“The victims, a woman aged in her 40s and her child were on her mobility scooter at the traffic lights near to the Range at 7pm on Friday, May 16.

“They were approached by a group of five men

“The victims were unharmed but understandably shaken by the incident.

“Anyone with information is asked to call us on 101 quoting the crime reference number 42/76657/19.

“Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800-555111.”