Dorset Police news site

Detectives are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward following an alleged assault in Bournemouth town centre.

Dorset Police received a report at 6.31pm on Monday 29 April 2024 of an assault in the Lower Gardens.

It is reported that two men – aged in their 30s and 40s – were assaulted with a glass bottle causing facial injuries. They were taken to hospital for treatment and their injuries are not believed to be serious.

Officers attended and a 23-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and assault by beating.

During the incident, a police officer reportedly sustained a minor injury to their hand and the man was also arrested on suspicion of assault by beating of an emergency worker.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Bell, of BCP CID, said: “Officers quickly arrived at the scene with the ambulance service and fast-time enquiries were carried out to detain the man and ensure those injured received treatment.

“A cordon was put in place to allow for an examination to be carried out and we would like to thank the public for their patience while this was in place.

“Detectives are now carrying out detailed enquiries to establish the full circumstances of the incident. This incident occurred during the evening in a busy location and we would ask anyone who saw what happened and has not already spoken to police to please get in touch.

“A policing presence will remain in the vicinity and our neighbourhood policing teams will be carrying out high-visibility reassurance patrols in the area and can be approached by anyone with information or concerns.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55240063439. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.