Appeal following reported assault in Bournemouth town centre

Officers investigating a reported assault in Bournemouth town centre are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.

It is reported that at around 7.15am on Saturday 17 January 2026, a man was punched multiple times by a man who was not known to him in Old Christchurch Road.

No serious injuries were sustained.

A 27-year-old man from Bournemouth was arrested on suspicion of assaulting a person thereby occasioning them actual bodily harm.

 He has since been released under investigation.

Police Staff Investigator Ellen Gough, of Bournemouth police, said: “We are carrying out an investigation into this alleged assault and I am keen to hear from any witnesses or anyone with information that might assist our enquiries.

“I understand that a few members of the public intervened during the incident, and I would ask these people to please come forward and speak to the police.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police online or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55260007548. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online using its website or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.