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NYPD: Queens Robbery Suspects Maced Victims Before Punching & Robbing Them

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Police are looking for a total of six people wanted in a pair of Queens robberies that involve the use of a disturbing tactic.

Authorities said the incidents took place last weekend in Ozone Park and Woodhaven.

Victims in each robbery were approached by a group of a half-dozen people, including male and female suspects, police said.

According to authorities, the female suspects sprayed their victims with mace before the male suspects punched and robbed them.

The first incident took place last Saturday around 10:45 p.m. in front of 84-15 Sutter Ave., where a 40-year-old man was victimized, police said.

The second robbery happened in front of 97-28 81st St., in which a 20-year-old man was victimized, police said.

Authorities have identified one suspect by name, 18-year-old Justin Ortiz. He has black hair and brown eyes.

Ortiz
Justin Ortiz is among those being sought in a pair of Queens robberies (credit: DCPI)

The others include one male between 17 and 20 years old.  Police are also looking for two other female suspects and two female persons of interest.

Persons of Interest
Persons of interest in the robberies. (credit: DCPI)

Authorities have surveillance photos and video of those they believe to be involved in the crimes.

Anyone with information in regards to these incidents is asked to call Crime stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477).  The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime stoppers website at WWW.NYPDCRIMESTOPPERS.COM or by texting their tips to 274637 (CRIMES) then enter TIP577.

WATCH: Surveillance Video

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