Woman walking in Bournemouth punched as man tries to rob her

A woman walking alone in Bournemouth at night has been punched in the face by a man trying to rob her.

The victim, in her 30's, was attacked about a month ago on Grants Close. She's told police he tried to take her phone and bank cards.

Officers are now appealing for two members of the public, who helped during the reported attempted robbery, to come forward.

They've released this statement:

At around 11.45pm on Thursday 18 February 2021 the victim – a woman aged in her 30s – was walking on Grants Close when she was approached by a man.

It is reported that he tried to take her mobile phone, before punching her in the face.

It is alleged that the man then pushed the victim over and tried to take her bank card.

The victim sustained reddening to her face that did not require hospital treatment.

Following enquiries, a 40-year-old man of no fixed abode was arrested on suspicion of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and attempted robbery.

He has been released on police bail pending further enquiries.

The victim and arrested man are known to each other.

Police Constable Dan Byrne, of Bournemouth police, said:

“We have been carrying out a number of enquiries into this incident, including house-to-house visits and CCTV trawls of the area.

“I am aware that two male members of the public intervened in the incident and reportedly pulled the man away from the victim. I am appealing directly to these people to come forward as they may have important information to assist my investigation.

“I would also like to hear from anyone who may have any information to assist my enquiries.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk**, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55210012946.**

Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.