Woman stabbed during failed mugging (From Croydon Guardian)

Woman fights off mugger in Croydon after being stabbed

7:14am Monday 28th May 2012 in News

Woman stabbed during failed mugging

A woman has been stabbed in both arms during a botched mugging.

Police are appealing for help after a 39-year-old woman was attacked after getting off a train at East Croydon in the early hours of Sunday morning.

The victim had made her way onto Morland Avenue when she was approached by a man who asked her the time before pulling a knife and demanding money.

He grabbed her handbag and during the struggle slashed her on both arms, but when she refused to let go, he fled empty handed.

The man is described as black, in his late teens, of slim build and about six ft.

He has short curly black hair and was wearing a three quarter length cargo jacket and dark coloured trousers.

The victim was taken to hospital in a stable condition.

Detective Sergeant Hayley Stanesby said: "This was a very violent attack on a woman trying to make her way home.

"The victim showed tenacity and bravery to keep hold of her valuables despite being stabbed several times ensuring the suspect left empty handed.

"The level and violence is unusual and we would ask anyone who knows who this man is to come forward."

If you have information about this incident call 020 3276 2228 or anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.