Tonbridge shoplifter assaults security guard with bottle

A CCTV image has been issued by officers after a suspected shop thief assaulted a Tonbridge security guard with a glass bottle.

The assault happened on Thursday 28 September 2023, at Sainsbury’s in the Angel Centre.

It is reported that at around 8.40pm the victim challenged a man inside the store following suspicions he was trying to steal several bottles of spirits.

The suspect is alleged to have used one of the bottles as a weapon and repeatedly beat the victim around the head, before he fled the scene.

Officers attended and an investigation is ongoing. The victim was taken to hospital with laceration injuries.  

Clothing clues

DC Jo Slevin of West Kent CID said: ‘The violence used against the victim was appalling; he was struck with such force that the bottle shattered. 'Whilst the CCTV image we have of this man shows little of his face, we are hopeful that someone may recognise his clothing, including a relatively distinctive top.’

Anyone with information should contact Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/174352/23.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111, or by using the online form on their website.