Police Determined To Catch Robber Who Stabbed Woman

Police say they're determined to catch a man who stabbed an elderly woman in the face during a shop robbery in Portsmouth.

They've issued a new appeal for information, as the 72-year-old remains in hospital. Her injuries aren't life-threatening.

At around 4.45pm on Tuesday May 21st, a man forced his way into the back of ‘The Goldman’ store on Fratton Road.
 
The burglar tied up the woman, who was working in the shop, by using cable ties on her wrists and ankles. There was a struggle between the two of them.
 
Several hundred pounds from the shop till and items of jewellery were stolen.
 
The burglar left through the back of the shop and police think he made his way onto Claremont Road and Walmer Road.

Detective Inspector Scott Mackechnie of Portsmouth CID said: 

"We would like to thank the community for their response and assistance to our investigation over the past two days. Officers are pursuing every available lead to identify and arrest a suspect.
 
"The 72-year-old woman remains in hospital. Her injuries are not life-threatening, but she is clearly distressed about what happened to her at the shop on Tuesday afternoon.
 
"A key line of enquiry is recovering and analysing any discarded property that may be relevant to the burglary. We are appealing again for local residents to check their gardens and bins for any unusual items, particularly a knife, any parts of a cash till, or a white sequin bag."
 
A suspect was described as:

-White
-Skinny build
-5' 5" to 5' 6" tall
-Wearing all dark clothing and a balaclava
 
Witnesses or anyone with information are asked to contact CID at Fratton Police Station by phoning 101. Mini-com users can phone 01962 875000. Alternatively, call the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111 if you wish to remain anonymous.