Stonnington Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for information following an attempted robbery on a taxi driver in Malvern East earlier this month.

Investigators have been told a man booked a taxi on 8 September under the false name ‘Jeff’.

He was picked up on Blackfriars Road, Wantirna about 6.30pm and taken to an address on Dandenong Road, Malvern East about 7pm.

When the taxi pulled over, the man – who had been in the front passenger seat of the taxi – then reached over and grabbed the driver in a headlock, pressing an unknown object to the back of his neck and demanding cash.

The victim stated he had no money inside the vehicle and the man fled empty-handed.

Police have released images and CCTV footage of a man who they believe can assist with their enquiries.

He is perceived as being Caucasian in appearance with a heavy build, and was wearing a hooded jumper.