Police release images after attempt to steal dog
DETECTIVES hunting would-be robbers who tried stealing a dog from its owner have released e-fit images of three suspects
As previously reported in the Echo, a 30-year-old man was walking his two dogs on February 25 in Cardiff when he was approached by three men, one armed with a craft knife.
The men tried to take one of the dogs – an eight-year-old Labrador – and, as the owner fought off the suspects, a dog poo bag he was carrying split, and the contents burst over one of the men which led them to flee empty-handed.
The dog owner, who was walking on the wooded trail that runs between Eastern Avenue and the Rumney River near Pentwyn at the time, suffered facial injuries and concussion in the attack. He is said to be recovering well at home with his two dogs who are both safe and well.
It is believed the suspects walked through Pentwyn and Llanrumney before and after the attempted robbery.
South Wales Police released the images yesterday in a bid to track down the suspects.
Detective Constable Kirsty Matthews said: “The victim was extremely brave and it is fortunate that he was not more seriously hurt as he did everything he could to stop the men from taking his dog.
“We appreciate this incident has caused a lot of concern locally, on social media and will no doubt worry all dog owners.
“This is an isolated incident and extensive inquiries are being carried out to identify and arrest those responsible.”
South Wales Police also added that a number of posts regarding dog thefts, including vehicles being used suspiciously, are being circulated on social media.
They want to reassure dog owners that the number of dog thefts being reported to the force remains very low.
■■If you recognise the suspects from the e-fits or have any information on this incident, please contact South Wales Police quoting occurrence *066613.