Daylight robbery leaves Blantyre man unconscious

Jul 21 2011 by Chris Clements, Hamilton Advertiser

POLICE are this week hunting a violent mugger who attacked and robbed a man in broad daylight.

The 20-year-old victim was knocked unconscious in the violent robbery near John Street, in Blantyre.

The assault and robbery happened at around 4.40pm on Tuesday, July 5.

The attacker, who is believed to have surprised the man from behind, made off with over £100 in cash as well as the man’s wristwatch.

Police are unsure whether the robber was male or female because they as yet have no description of any kind.

Detectives are now studying CCTV footage in an attempt to trace the suspect, as well as conducting door-to-door enquiries.

They are also appealing for witnesses to come forward.

The 20-year-old victim had been visiting relatives in Blantyre’s Morris Crescent and was on his way to the train station to travel to Hamilton.

In order to make his way to the station, he walked down John Street.

A spokesman for Strathclyde Police said: “He was walking on John Street towards a rural path that leads to Blantyre train station when he was attacked by an unknown person, causing him to lose consciousness. When the victim regained consciousness, he found that the person responsible for the attack had stolen a three-figure sum of money and a blue Ice wristwatch from him.”

Bleeding from a small cut on his face and suffering from swelling, the victim called a family member to inform them of the attack.

It is not known whether the robber used a weapon, as he “blindsided” his victim – attacked him suddenly from behind – giving him no chance to see what was happening.

The spokesman added: “During the attack, the victim sustained slight facial injuries – however, he did not require medical attention.”

Detective Constable Paul McDougall of Hamilton CID is dealing with the enquiry and has urged members of the public with knowledge of the crime to come forward.

He said: “This was a particularly nasty attack on an innocent young man who was simply going about his daily business.

“The attack happened in broad daylight, so we are keen to speak to anyone who may have been in the vicinity of where the incident took place.

“I’d like to reassure local residents that we are working to identify who was responsible for this incident.

“I would urge anyone with information to get in touch with me at Hamilton Police Office on 01698 483300.

“Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”