Police are investigating after a female small business owner was reportedly kicked and hit in the face and body during a theft in Hobart’s CBD this afternoon.
A group of young people went into LuBrano Emporium in the Icon Complex around 1:15pm.
Police said a female struck and kicked the woman working there before stealing items.
She did not need an ambulance and her injuries were not reported to be serious.
According to the owner, four teenagers came into the shop around 12:30pm and stole items, then got away when the owner chased them.
Some of the same teenagers returned later that day with a larger group.
The owner said one of the group picked up an item and tried to leave without paying.
“When I stepped forward to stop her, she suddenly became aggressive and physically attacked me, kicking and hitting me,” the owner who did not want to be named told Pulse.
After the attack, the owner was left in pain and with swelling. Two women helped call police and officers came to the shop.
“I was frightened and shocked by what happened,” she said. “I never expected to be physically attacked while trying to stop someone from stealing from my shop.”
The owner reported the incident to Tasmania Police and said the shop had full CCTV footage that was provided.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police and quote ESCAD 204-20102026.
