A man was assaulted and a quantity of cash and electrical items were stolen from him close to Portlaoise Leisure Centre at approximately 6 am this morning.
The suspect is believed to be have loitering for a time around Dr Murphy Place shortly before the robbery took place, according to gardai.
A garda spokesperson said: “He threatened and punched the man and spoke with a local accent”.
Following the robbery, the man made off on foot in the direction of St Brigid’s Place.
Gardai are hoping members of the public will assist them with their enquiries as there was traffic in the area at that time on its way to Portlaoise Leisure Centre.
Portlaoise Garda Station can be contacted at 057 8674100.
