A man suffered cuts to his hand after suspects in balaclavas reportedly armed with a knife broke into a property at lunchtime today.

Police are investigating an aggravated burglary in Northgate Path, Borehamwood, which happened at 12.30pm. 

The incident has happened not far from the scene of a stabbing in Leeming Road yesterday but police say today's incident is not linked.

Hertfordshire Constabulary said: "Detectives investigating an aggravated burglary in Borehamwood are appealing for witnesses and information.

"The incident happened between 12pm and 12.30pm this afternoon (Monday 20 January).

"The suspects, who were reportedly wearing balaclavas, forced entry to a property in Northgate Path. It is alleged that one of the offenders had a knife.

"The victim, a man in his 20s, sustained cuts to his hand. He was taken to hospital for treatment.

"It is not known if anything was stolen at this time."

Sergeant Chris Payne, who is investigating, said: "Firstly, I’d like to stress that this is not being linked to the incident that happened in Leeming Road yesterday.

"We understand that incidents of this nature are alarming, and will undoubtedly cause concern amongst the local community.

“Please be assured that we are carrying out extensive enquiries to identify the offenders. If you were in the area around the time and believed you may have witnessed the incident, or believe you may have seen anyone in the area behaving suspiciously, please get in contact.

“Any information, no matter how minor or insignificant it may seem, could be vital to us solving the case.”

Officers are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or anyone who may have any information, to call 101 quoting ISR 283 of 20/01 or email Chris.Payne@herts.pnn.police.uk

Meanwhile, police say a 16-year-old boy is in a serious but stable condition after he was stabbed in Leeming Road yesterday afternoon.

Borehamwood Times:

Police and a forensics van in Leeming Road yesterday afternoon

Borehamwood Times:

Police guard the Co-op store in Leeming Road on Sunday afternoon

Police units and the air ambulance were called to Co-op at 1.44pm.

No arrests have been made but police are treating it as an 'isolated incident'.

Detective Sergeant Gemma Badat, who is investigating, said: "We are aware that incidents of this nature are always going to cause concern in the local community, but I would like to take this opportunity to reassure the public that we do not believe there to be any wider threat, and we are treating this as an isolated incident.

"The victim and the suspect(s) are believed to be known to each other.

"Enquiries are ongoing, and I’d like to ask anyone who witnessed the incident, or anyone who believes they have any information they think could assist with the investigation, to get in contact as a matter of urgency."

Anyone with information is asked to contact 101 quoting reference Op Catalyse or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800555111.