A TERRIFIED Newport man was robbed at gunpoint as he walked along a city street early today.

The robbery is the third to hit Gwent in a two-week period. The incident took place at 12.30am near the railway bridge on Caerleon Road.

Police say two men got out of a car and pointed a gun at a pedestrian, before taking around £140 in cash from him.

The victim, who lives in Maindee but has not yet been named, then telephoned police.

Inspector Peter Davies said: "We are in the early stages of the investigation, and if anyone has knowledge about the robbery, please contact us."

The two men are described by police as around 6ft tall, in their early 20s, and of African origin. Both were wearing hooded tops.

They drove off in a dark-coloured hatchback, possibly a Ford Escort or Vauxhall Astra.

Last Tuesday three men robbed the Spar shop in Bridge Street, Usk. Two weeks before, Usk Post Office was held up.

Statistics for 2003 up until October show firearms offences in Gwent are down by 50 per cent this year.

Deputy Chief Constable Brian Davies told the Argus last month: "Our figures reflect a reduction in firearm-related offences. This is not saying we are complacent, and the protection of the public and our officers is always foremost in our thinking."

Contact Maindee CID on 01633 244999.