Teen bashed in daytime attacks | Manawatu-Wanganui News | Local News in Manawatu-Wanganui

Whanganui police are asking for the public's help over two daytime hold-ups on teenagers in the city.

Senior Sergeant Dave Kirby said that in the first incident, a 15-year-old male student was approached by four young men outside Cullinane College about 8am on Wednesday. He was asked for the time and when he pulled out his cellphone to check the time, the phone was taken from him.

Mr Kirby said the four were about 18 years old, and were of Maori or Fijian descent.

"Two wore black beanies and one wore a brown and yellow checked Swanndri."

Mr Kirby said the student was not injured.

The second incident had happened about 12.45pm outside McDonalds restaurant in Liffiton St. Another 15-year-old boy was walking out of the McDonalds carpark when he was asked for money by two males. "He ignored them and walked off, then was struck on the back of the head and knocked to the ground. His schoolbag was taken off him and he was kicked in the ribs."

Mr Kirby said the boy was able to get a good look at the two men.

One is described as a Pakeha, about 17 years old, wearing a white button-up shirt and blue jeans. He had short black hair and a black bandanna tied over his mouth and nose. The other man was also a Pakeha in his early 20s with a shaved head. He was not wearing a top, but had on black trousers. "The victim has received bruising to his ribs and he has a sore head, but he didn't require hospital treatment."

Mr Kirby said that incident had happened in a busy area during lunch time. "Someone must have witnessed this attack, and we would like them to come forward."

Anyone with information should contact Whanganui police on (06) 349 0600.