Burglars attacked two men during a burglary in Brighton early this morning (Monday 24 December).
The victims, aged 65 and 39, were asleep in the house in Manor Way when the two burglars broke in.
Both victims suffered serious although not life-threatening injuries and were treated at the Royal Sussex County Hospital near by.
Detective Sergeant Suzy Maclintock, from Brighton and Hove CID, said: “At around 6am we believe two men forced their way into the property by kicking through a back door.
“The occupants of the house were then attacked in the upstairs bedrooms with possibly a brick and iron bar before the suspects fled with their mobile phones.
“We believe this may have been a targeted attack and would urge anyone who knows who was responsible to please get in touch as a matter of urgency.”
The suspects were described as white and were wearing dark clothing at the time of the attack.
Anyone with information is asked to call Sussex Police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.