OAP Assaulted In Attempt To Steal His Dog

Detectives in Motherwell are hunting two men after an OAP was assaulted as two men tried to steal his German Shepherd dog.

The pair attacked the 77 year old in the town on Monday 20th July at around 1500 hours behind the Bullfrog Dog.

He was taken to Wishaw General Hospital, where he was treated for a serious cut to his arm. He has since been released.

The two men involved are described as:

1. White, 25 to 30 years of age, clean shaven, short hair, wearing a grey tracksuit top and white trainers.

2. White, 25 to 30 years of age, clean shaven, short brown hair, wearing a black hooded top, light trousers and white trainers.

Both men are believed to speak with a local accent.

Detective Constable Jacqui McCann, Wishaw CID, said today:

“We believe that the man involved was the intended target and that the men were trying to steal his dog.

“It’s the second time in just over a week that he has been attacked. The first time was around 1530 hours on Friday 10 July, when he was approached by who he believes to be the same men in Shields Glen, Motherwell. On this occasion he was hit on the head by the men but not injured – again he believes they tried to get his dog.

“He walks his dog in the same place every day and at the same time – so if the intent is to steal his dog, the suspects will know his routine. It is very possible that they have been hanging about the area for the past while and so people may have seen them there.

“This is the first instance of this (attempting to steal a dog) we have come across but obviously if anyone else has been approached or seen the two men then please come forward.

“These men have obviously no issue with using violence. It was a very frightening and particularly nasty attack and it is imperative that we trace those responsible.”

Anyone with information should contact officers at Wishaw Police Office via the non-emergency number 101 or alternatively, Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where details can be given in confidence.