A 60-year-old woman had her tooth knocked out when she was robbed by two ‘cowardly’ thugs in a Rochdale car park.
One man attacked her as she got off the bus at Rochdale Bus Station and it is thought another man acted as a lookout in the attack between 9.50pm and 10.05pm on Wednesday.
As she walked into the car park behind the Broadwater Centre on Smith Street, a man punched her in the face from behind – causing her to lose a tooth as her face hit the floor.
Detective Constable David Gill said: “This was a cowardly and despicable attack on a woman who was on her own and defenceless.
“We believe the two culprits were sat on a wall drinking at the junction of Smith Street and Molesworth Street just before the robbery, and may have seen this woman on her own and taken advantage in the cruellest possible way.
“Such cowardice should not go unpunished and for the victim’s peace of mind we need to find her attackers and bring them to justice.”
The main offender stole the vulnerable woman’s handbag and ran off with his accomplice towards Broadwater Youth Club.
He is described as white, about 6ft tall, 18-20 years old, of a medium build and with short brown hair. He was wearing a dark tracksuit.
The other man was of white, of a similar age, height and build and also wearing a dark tracksuit.
DC Gill added: “I would appeal to anyone who either witnessed the incident or suspects they know who may be involved to come forward.
“If you have overheard these two men bragging about their antics, then please do the right thing and call us.”
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 4052, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
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