A HEARTLESS robber pushed a mobility scooter over to steal the rider’s handbag.

The victim, a woman in her 70s, suffered a broken arm in the callous attack which took place as she rode her scooter along Carbery Avenue in Southbourne, Bournemouth.

She was approached from behind by the offender, who was riding a bike. Police said the robber grabbed a plastic bag and a handbag but dropped the plastic bag shortly afterwards. 

The scooter toppled over and the woman, described by police as vulnerable, was treated in hospital for a broken arm before being discharged later the same day.

Investigating officers are now appealing for witnesses to the incident, which took place at around 4.15pm on Wednesday April 4.

Thursday afternoon, a 31-year-old woman from Bournemouth was arrested on suspicion of robbery. She is assisting officers with enquiries. 

A local councillor has condemned the incident, urging members of the public to look out for vulnerable people in their neighbourhoods.

The victim’s mobile phone was recovered later in a garden in nearby Rufford Gardens but the handbag and the rest of its contents have still not been located.

Detective Constable Matt Loader, of Bournemouth CID, said: “This was a nasty robbery targeting a vulnerable woman, who was left with a broken arm and is understandably shaken by the incident.

“I am appealing for any witnesses, or anyone who has any information that can assist our investigation, to please contact police.”

Cllr Blair Crawford, who represents West Southbourne and is portfolio holder for Adult Social Care, added: “I am very sorry to hear of this - attacks of this nature on vulnerable people are the most vicious of all.

“There is a responsibility on all of us to report such offences and, when possible, to intervene to come to the aid of somebody. This is a bad reflection on what is otherwise a peaceful area.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police on 101.