DETECTIVES are hunting a “dangerous man” who has gone missing after being convicted of committing a vicious attack.

Mohamed Tahar Tabte, pictured, was found guilty of grievous bodily harm and was due to be sentenced in June but failed to attend court.

Police have been unable to find him and are urging people not to approach him but dial 999 immediately.

He was convicted of attacking another man outside Peppino’s Restaurant along Charminster Road, Bournemouth, in the early hours of Sunday January 22.

The victim, a 30-year-old from Bournemouth, sustained severe head injuries.

An appeal was issued publishing a clear picture of the suspect and Tabte was identified by members of the public.

DC Tristan Downie, of Bournemouth CID, said: “This was an extremely nasty and unprovoked attack in which the victim suffered numerous skull and jaw fractures, resulting in a bleed on the brain and permanent damage.

“Mohamed Tabte has been found guilty of committing this assault and we are very keen to find him so that he can be sentenced and brought to justice.”

He is described as 5ft 9ins, of slim build with short black hair and is of Middle Eastern appearance.

DC Downie added: “He is a dangerous man. Should anyone see him and recognise him we advise that they do not approach him, but to phone Dorset Police on 999.”

Anyone else with other information about him should contact Dorset Police in confidence on 101.