Update:
Police investigation begins:
Officers have identified the victim of a report on social media about an assault in Bournemouth and are now appealing for witnesses to come forward.
It is reported that at around 11.15pm on Friday 18 June 2021 the victim – a local young man – was standing in Cowdrey Gardens when he was approached by four men.
Following a brief interaction where the victim said that he was transgender, one of the group pulled the victim to the ground while the other men held him down and assaulted him. It is reported that three of the group produced knives and caused injuries to the victim’s face and torso that did not require hospital treatment.
The men are described as white and of a tanned complexion, aged between 20 and 30 years old and between five feet six inches and six feet two inches tall. All of the men were described as wearing dark-coloured boots, black jumpers, black jeans and black material face coverings. Two of the men were of medium build, one was of large build and the fourth man was of a slim build.
Neighbourhood Inspector Darren Harris, of Bournemouth police, said: “Since officers became aware of information circulating on social media and in a few media outlets in relation to this incident they have carried out enquiries to locate the victim to ensure a thorough investigation and provide the necessary support to them.
“Officers have been carrying out house-to-house enquiries and have been checking for CCTV systems in the vicinity to assist their investigation.
“I am appealing to anyone who may have seen or heard any suspicious activity in the area around the relevant time to please get in touch.
“Dorset Police takes all reports of violent crime and hate crime very seriously and will investigate any matters that are brought to our attention. We will be continuing to carry out detailed enquiries and would appreciate any information that may help to bring any offenders to justice.
“We understand the concern this incident may cause and would like to reassure the public that if they have any concerns they can speak to officers from their local neighbourhood policing team.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email [email protected] or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55210101490. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call freephone 0800 555 111.
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