A MAN was robbed in a York street by two attackers who stunned him with an illegal Taser-like weapon.

Police said the attack happened in Shipton Street, in the Clifton area of the city, at about 2am on Sunday.

The 31-year-old man received bruises to his arm, wrist and face and required treatment at York Hospital.

Less than two hours later at 3.45am, a 41-year-old man was targeted by two men in Burton Stone Lane, York. Police said the victim was struck with a Taser-like weapon and suffered arm and facial injuries before running away.

It is not known what property was stolen in the robberies, but police are linking both attacks.

Reports in 2008 suggested C2 Taser guns, with “the highest take-down power available” were on sale online for $US 350 (£216).

The weapons have caused international concern, with Australian customs officials intercepting thousands each year.

A national concern group has expressed horror at the York attacks.

Oliver Sprague, of Amnesty International, said: “Amnesty has for a long time highlighted just how dangerous stun guns can be.

“They cause excruciating pain and in the United States, Amnesty has recorded how more than 330 people have died after being shocked by law enforcement officials.

“It’s particularly worrying to hear that these weapons may be in the hands of criminals.”

In the UK, Taser guns are classed as “prohibited weapons” under the Firearms Act, and possession is banned without the written permission of the Home Secretary.

They can be used by police to subdue suspects who are trying to escape or are considered to be dangerous.

A Taser uses an electrical current to cause temporary paralysis. A 50,000 volt charge, lasting five seconds, incapacitates the target’s central nervous system, causing their muscles to contract painfully.

If they are standing, they will fall to the ground, and often the jolt will cause the victim to lose bladder and bowel control.

Internet shoppers in the UK who try to buy a Taser from manufacturer Taser International are denied access to the online store at taser.com Taser International claims Tasers are safe, but critics disagree, citing the number of deaths occurring after use.

Amnesty International alleges more than 330 deaths have occurred after their use, although it has not been proved whether they were directly responsible.

• Two men have been arrested in connection with the incident in York. One has been charged and one has been released on bail pending further inquiries.