Sliema bag-snatcher stopped by two men

A 33-year-old man from Sliema has been arrested by the police following an attempt to rob an 18-year-old woman.

The incident happened at around 4.15pm in Triq San Vincenz, Sliema, before the eyes of at least two other men who rescued the woman and restrained the robber.

It transpires that the young woman and her friend - both Belgians - were walking along the street when the robber attempted to snatch her handbag. The victim was also thrown to the ground.

Witnessing the incident, two men rushed to help the victim and held the man until the arrival of police officers. The robber was subsequently escorted to the Sliema Police Station, while the woman was taken to the Gżira Health Centre, where it was established that she sustained slight injuries.

The men who helped the woman were identified as a 66-year-old from Pembroke and a 25-year-old from Gzira.

"While those who assisted must surely be praised, we remind anyone who may find themselves in such situations to be cautious. Suspects can be dangerous, especially if armed," the Police said.