Man Robbed Near Pahoa High Early Friday

A 39-year-old Pahoa man told police that he was accosted and robbed early today by a group of young men just outside Pahoa.

The unidentified victim told police he was walking on Highway 130 near Pahoa High School at around 2:15 a.m. when he encountered a group of five or six people. He said as one of them engaged him in conversation, the others assaulted him and took his backpack before fleeing the area.

The victim then walked into Pahoa town to report the incident to police. He declined medical treatment for what was described as non-life-threatening injuries.

Police said all of the suspects are believed to be in their 20s.

One was described as “local-looking,” about 5-foot-6 with short, dark hair, and a medium complexion. He was wearing a black T-shirt. Another suspect had a light complexion, reddish-brown short hair and a muscular build. He was wearing a black T-shirt and a ball cap.

A third suspect had dark, shoulder-length hair, a medium build and a goatee. He was wearing a T-shirt and a ball cap.

Anyone with information on the incident is asked to call Det. Norbert Serrao Jr. at 961-2383 or by email at nserrao@co.hawaii.hi.us.