Teen Gang Attack in Havant Park Leaves Man Bloodied
Police are hunting a gang after a 20-year-old man was left battered with cuts and bruises to his head in a shocking attack at Havant Park.
Violent Assault Caught Police Off Guard
The victim was out with three mates around 8:30pm on Saturday, 8 July, when trouble struck. A group of youths sitting on a bench approached them, and as the man headed to the park’s toilets, he was set upon and viciously assaulted by the gang.
Up to 30 youths were reportedly hanging around the area during the incident. Besides the main victim, two of his friends suffered minor injuries in the fracas.
Police Appeal for Witnesses and Footage
PC Peter Vincent of Havant’s Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “We got to the scene within 90 seconds of the call, but the group had vanished. We believe many people were nearby and may have seen what happened. We urge anyone with information or footage to come forward.”
Officers believe the attackers were local teens aged 14 to 16 years, many wearing shorts and t-shirts, some even without tops.
Parents are also asked: “Did your child come home with unexplained minor injuries last night? This could be vital to our inquiry.”
Operation Syren Targets Anti-Social Behaviour
As part of the ongoing year-long Operation Syren, Havant police are cracking down on youth disorder in the town centre.
Parents are urged to keep an eye on their kids:
- Find out where your child is going and how they plan to get home.
- Keep control of your alcohol stock and monitor if any goes missing.
- Report any experience of anti-social behaviour promptly.
PC Vincent added: “We can’t be everywhere all the time, but with your help sharing info, we can target hotspots better.”
Stay updated on the campaign by following @HavantPolice on Twitter and signing up at Hampshire Alerts.
