Man hospitalised with head injuries after bus attack by gang

A CHRISTCHURCH man needed hospital treatment after he was beaten up by five people on a bus.

The attack took place at around 11.10pm last Friday while the bus was stopped on Palmerston Road in Bournemouth.

The assault was said to have involved four boys and a man.

The victim, who is aged in his 20s, was taken to hospital with head and facial injuries.

Three boys from Verwood and one from Blandford, all aged 16, were arrested on suspicion of inflicting grievous bodily harm without intent.

All four have been released under investigation while enquiries continue. Police are now appealing for witnesses.

DC Laura Smith, of Bournemouth CID, said: “I believe there were four male passengers on the bus at the time of the alleged assault and I am appealing to those men to come forward as they may have information to assist my investigation.”

Those with information should contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55190180882.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.