An off-duty police officer stepped in and saw off a thug who battered a man in a violent street attack.
The quick-thinking officer intervened to rescue the 47-year-old victim in Lonend, Paisley, in the early hours of yesterday morning.
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The man had been walking along the road around 12.15am when the brute launched an unprovoked assault.
An eagle-eyed cop, who had already clocked off duty, spotted the rammy as he drove past. He pulled over and jumped out to help.
It’s understood the yob was able to run away from the scene before the police officer could detain him.
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The shaken victim suffered minor injuries in the onslaught, but did not require medical treatment.
Police are now appealing for witnesses to the incident to come forward and are trying to establish a motive for the assault.
Chief Inspector Simon Wright, area commander for Paisley, has praised his officer for his brave actions.
He said: “A 47-year-old man was assaulted by an unknown male in Lonend at around 12.15am on Thursday.
“He was punched to the head in what appears to be an unprovoked attack.
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“A passing off-duty police officer intervened and the suspect made off from the scene. We are now carrying out enquiries in order to trace the suspect, including checking CCTV and speaking to potential witnesses”
He added: “But for the actions of the officer this incident could have had more serious consequences for the victim.
“If you witnessed this attack or have any information in relation to it, I would urge you to contact police immediately.
“Can I also ask drivers who might have been passing around that time to check dashcam footage to see if they captured anything of significance to our investigation.”
Anyone with information should phone police on 101, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
