Four women injured in spate of robberies in Glasgow

police say all victims had their handbags snatched in separate attacks in the east and west ends of the city

Published 19th Oct 2016

Police are stepping up patrols in areas of Glasgow where four women were viciously robbed.

All of the victims, aged 18, 22, 28 and 47 suffered minor injuries after being either punched or dragged to the ground on Tuesday and early on Wednesday morning.

They were targeted in Kelvinside, Dennistoun, St George's Cross and Bridgeton.

The robber made off with their handbags in the attacks on Beaconsfield Road, Armadale Street, Great Western Road and Dalmarnock Road.

One young woman, the 18 year old, was taken to Glasgow Royal Infirmary for treatment of a minor injury and later released. It has not been confirmed that these incidents are linked at this time.

A definitive description of the suspect or suspects is still to be confirmed.

Detective Inspector Alasdair Barlow of the specialist Community Investigation Unit, based at Govan, said:

“We do not yet know if these incidents are linked, or if it was one man or a group of men who are responsible for these robberies which left four women with minor injuries and in a state of shock.

“In all the incidents, one man approached the victims and either attempted to punch the women or drag the women to the ground before making off with their personal property. No weapons were used in these incidents.

“We know that the women were on their own at the time these incidents occurred. This speaks to the character and the cowardice of the person or persons involved. We are doing all we can to trace the individual or individuals responsible and ensure that they are held to account for his actions. We are analysing CCTV, conducting door to door interviews and speaking with local businesses and transport operators.

“Anyone with information should contact the Community Investigation Unit at Govan via 101 or contact CRIMESTOPPERS on 0800 555 111.”

“There are high visibility patrols being deployed in areas were these women were targeted. If you have any information which can assist, please come forward and speak to these officers.

“As police officers, we will not let this man to go undetected. As a community, we will not allow the actions of criminals to make women feel unsafe in the areas where they live, work or travel to. Anyone with any concerns about their personal safety should visit their local police office or contact us via 101.”