Police today urged people to avoid a footpath after five people were robbed there in the space of a few weeks.
Officers believe the five attacks in Hutchinson Walk, in the St Peters area of Leicester, may have been carried out by the same gang.
Victims have been targeted for phones, wallets, bags and iPads.
However, the victims have been able to provide only sketchy descriptions of up to five gang members.
In each case, the thugs have attacked people from behind and were wearing hooded tops which covered their faces.
The offences happened between 5pm and 9pm and were carried out by youths in their late teens, the victims have said.
Officers at Spinney Hill Park police station have stepped up patrols in the area with more stopping and searching of suspects.
They have also urged the public to avoid the path, which runs between Hutchinson Street and the Swain Street bridge.
Police have timed an alternative route along Maidstone Road and into Swain Street and found the journey is just two minutes longer.
Inspector Ben Gillard, commander of Spinney Hill Park police station, said: "It has been a bit of a crime hot-spot in the past, but we have had five incidents since the beginning of May.
"That is a high number for one location.
"Because of the shape of the path, you can't see who is around the corner or who is behind you.
"We think the people who are carrying out these offences are using the geography of the path to their advantage.
"Our advice to people is to take the slightly longer route."
A resident of nearby Berners Street said: "I hadd heard a couple of people being robbed there and I thought, 'why would people walk along there on their own, whatever the time of day?'
"I used to use it to go to and from town, but now I stay on the main roads.
"I used to feel unsafe in Hutchinson Walk and a lot of people would say the same thing."
Sgt Matt Painter, who is leading the search for the gang, said: "We have timed the alternative route and it is literally two minutes on people's journey.
"We are taking this issue very seriously.
"Officers wearing body cams have begun to stop and question those using Hutchinson Walk, in order to gain a better perspective of its use and advise pedestrians on safe routes.
"I would also advise people to keep their personal belongings out of public view and stick to well lit main roads."
Contact Leicestershire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers, which is anonymous, on 0800 555 111.
