A KNIFE was held to the throat of a teenager as he walked past a Livingston supermarket.
The 19-year-old was grabbed by two men as he was walking up the ramp behind Marks and Spencer.
The pair demanded to know his name, before releasing him and apologising.
The victim required stitches in his neck for a cut left by the knife.
Both suspects are described as being white, between 17-19-years-old of slim build.
One of the men was unshaven with a slight moustache, and was wearing a black zip-up top with the hood up.
The other had freckles, and was wearing a black beanie hat with blonde curly hair sticking out the side.
A police spokesperson said: “This young man seems to have had a narrow escape, as it appears he’s been mistaken for someone else. Although he’s not been seriously injured, the young man involved has been left understandably shaken as a result.
“We are appealing for anyone who may have been in the area at the time, and who may have information that may assist this inquiry, to contact us.
“In addition we’d be keen to hear from anyone who recognises the description of the suspects.”
Anyone with information should contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, or the charity Crimestoppers in confidence and complete anonymity on 0800 555 111.
