Men frequenting cruising hotspots on Clapham Common are being warned to beware of violent muggers after two men tried to garrotte a man with a piece of wire.

Police believe robbers are posing as cruisers to lure men into bushes in an attempt to mug them.

One man contacted Galop, London's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community safety charity, on September 13 to report a serious assault on Clapham Common.  The man, who has not reported the incident to the police, contacted the charity anonymously, which then got in touch with police.

A police spokesman said: "He was lured into the bushes by another man posing as a willing sexual participant. His accomplice, an older man, then garrotted the victim with something which felt like a piece of wire.

"While the victim was being strangled, the young man searched through his pockets. But the victim had been in the military so he knew how to get out of the situation."  The spokesman said the victim poked one of his attackers in the eyes and the pair ran off.  He said police believe there are teams and individuals posing as gay men to lure men into secluded spots and rob them.

"The motivation behind these attacks seems to be robbery, but the vicious methods used could lead to far worse," said the spokesman.

In response to the problem, police are stepping up patrols on Clapham Common and Putney towpath, known areas for cruisers.

Detective Inspector Nicola Church said: "These attacks are premeditated and violent. We urge people frequenting these areas to be aware of their surroundings and be extra vigilant."

For those who would prefer to talk to an officer in person, Wandsworth's LGBT Network is launching on October 25 at Battersea Arts Centre between 7pm and 9pm.  Police LGBT liaison officers, including gay officers, with experience in dealing with minorities will be present.