Police probe if Cairns stabbings linked

Police are investigating whether two robberies where teenagers suffered stab wounds in Cairns are linked.

An 18-year-old man was stabbed in the hand on the Cairns Esplanade after being confronted by four men just after midnight on Saturday.

About 30 minutes later a 17-year-old boy received a cut to his arm and a stab wound to his hand when approached by a similar looking suspect.

Both teenagers received treatment in hospital for their injuries and police are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

The offender is described as Caucasian, in his twenties, approximately 180cm and wearing dark clothing.

Nothing was stolen in either incident.