Police Link Robberies In Portsmouth
Police in Portsmouth are appealing for information after two women were robbed in the city last Thursday (March 1), between 7 and 7.20pm.
The first happened in Buckland Path. A 63-year-old woman from Portsmouth had just got off the number three bus at a stop in Fratton Road after taking a journey from Outram Road in Southsea. Some time later, when she reached Buckland Path she was pushed to the ground and a bank card and council bus pass in a red holder were stolen from her.
The woman sustained a large bruise and swelling to the left side of her face. She was taken to Queen Alexandra hospital for treatment and may also have a broken cheekbone.
The second incident took place in Cornwallis Crescent. A 24-year-old woman from Portsmouth was pushed to the ground and an attempt was made to steal her bag from her, breakingthe handle. Nothing was stolen.
The woman has a sore back and bruised knee as a result of the incident.
It is believed the robberies were carried out by two or three men. They are described as wearing balaclavas on their heads or black hooded tops with scarves covering their faces.
The 24-year-old victim has now released a statement, saying: “When the robbery was happening I was petrified. One minute I was walking along talking to my Mum on my phone, the next my bag was being grabbed from my shoulder. It was so sudden.
“I’m really shaken up by what happened. I’m nervous about being out on my own, especially out in the dark. I didn’t see the faces of those who attacked me and now I just keep thinking, it could be them, as I pass peoplein the street. I was such a confident person, this has really affected me.
“Now I look back on it I wish I had pulled off what was covering their faces to get a good look at them or carried my rape alarm in my pocket so I could have set it off but it all happened so quickly.
“I would ask anyone who saw what happened or knows who did this to call the police. I screamed as it happened and someone nearby might have heard it but thought at the time it was just kids messing around. Please help police identify who was responsible for this.”
Det Con Allison Fraser said: “These robberies were in quick succession in a small area of the city. Several members of the public witnessed parts of what happened and are kindly helping police with the investigation.
“I appeal to others to please come forward if they saw what happened or know who the offenders were or they recover any stolen items as above.
“These were cowardly attacks on lone women from behind, meaning their victims did not see the faces of their attackers.
“This is not intended to frighten people walking alone at night but please be aware of your surroundings and take appropriate caution if you are worried.”
Anyone with information should contact DC Fraser at Fratton police station on 101. Mini-Com users can call the police on 01962 875000.
Information can be given anonymously bycalling the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.
