Manhunt after woman's ear cut in robbery

(ANSA) - Rome, September 24 - Police have launched a massive manhunt for four criminals who performed a violent robbery at the home of a well-known surgeon in the central province of Chieti at the weekend. The man suffered head injuries caused by many punches while the robbers cut the ear of his wife during the attack.
    The gang used the victim's car to flee the scene.
    The couple's disabled son was not hurt. Police said Monday there have been six previous robberies with beatings and mutilations in the area in recent times.
    Police said they are probing a gang that specialises in brutal robberies.
    The last attempted burglary took place at Paglieta near Chieti on August 4 when a 33-year-old man had his nose broken and suffered severe bruising.