Two elderly residents robbed in Govanhill
police launch enquiries after separate attacks last night which have left one OAP hospitalised
Police have launched enquiries after two OAP's have been robbed in Govanhill.
A 73 year old man was walking along Belleisle St at around 6.45pm last night when he was grabbed by a man who pushed him to the ground and made off with his wallet containing a small sum of cash.
The suspect is described as of Eastern European appearance, dark skinned, in his late teens and was wearing a black leather jacket, grey hooded top and blue jeans.
In the second robbery an 86 year old man suffered facial injuries and is in a stable condition in hospital after three men forced their way into his flat in Garturk Street. They made of with a two figure sum of cash, all in coins.
The suspects are described as of Eastern European appearance, early 20s, one with short shaved in dark hair. No further descriptions at this time.
Chief Inspector Graham McInarlin, local area commander, said today:
“At this time we cannot confirm if the two incidents are linked, however, enquiries are ongoing.
“Thankfully, neither man was seriously injured, however, I fully recognise and understand the impact this has on the local community and in particular our elderly residents.
“The seriousness of these incidents is not lost on me and be re-assured that Police Scotland is treating these incidents head on and will fully commit all resources, both local and national to deal with those responsible.
“We have increased with policing presence in the area with a significant additional number of officers deployed to the area. This will include the Mounted Branch, the Force Flexible Policing Team, Divisional Violence Reduction Unit, Divisional Robbery Team and specially trained plain clothes unit. These officers are in addition to our local Community Police Team and dedicated Govanhill Hub Officers. We will maintain these resources indefinitely.
“Our specialist robbery officers are dealing with the robberies and will use both local and public space CCTV cameras to identify those responsible. I can assure you that these enquiries will be robust and intrusive.
"Additionally, street Police Officer briefings, normally carried out at the weekends, will take place daily at key locations throughout Govanhill.
"The men responsible for these robberies are nothing but cowards. They are despicable and deserve all that is coming to them and I am determined to catch them and put them behind bars.
"I would also encourage anyone who has been a victim of a crime to contact police. Make police your first call. If you don’t want to call police yourself, tell a neighbour or a friend to get in touch with officers. We have to be told what’s happening so that we can respond and investigate.”
Anyone with information can contact officers at Cathcart Police Office via 101.
Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be called on 0800 555 111 where details can be given in confidence.