A Springvale man fought back after thieves took his phone and struck him across the head with a wooden stake.
Greater Dandenong CIU Senior Constable Matthew Moore said the victim, 26, was walking on Newcomen Road, just off Springvale Road, about 10pm on Friday 1 December.
He said two youths approached him on foot and snatched his phone. The victim gave chase.
The thieves struck him in the face with a wooden stake but he continued to demand they return his phone.
They did so, and ran from the scene.
The victim was treated for minor injuries to his face.
Sen Const Moore urged anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
