Police Investigate Attack On Schoolgirls

Police have launched an investigation into an attack on two schoolgirls in Northfield, Oxford.

West Midlands Police launched an investigation after a video began circulating on social media showing a "sickening attack on two schoolgirls by bullies who humiliate and assault them".

It is understood that detectives have already spoken to two of the group involved – including a male youth who filmed the incident – and plans are in place to arrest the two female offenders.

Inspector John Askew from Birmingham South Police, said: "The response from members of the public, clearly disgusted by what they’ve seen online, has been overwhelming and we’ve had lots of people getting in touch to provide names of those responsible.

"We have identified the two main suspects and plans are in place for one of the girls, a 16-year-old, to attend a police station for questioning later today. We understand the other main suspect is out of the country on holiday but we will speak to her upon her return.

"I would like to reassure everyone this is being treated very seriously and that the enquiry is progressing…under no circumstances should anyone take matters into their own hands as this could leave them liable to prosecution themselves."

It is understood that the film footage shows the two female victims, both aged 14, being forced to their knees to apologise for "giving dirty looks" before one is then shoved to the floor and assaulted; the victims' handbags were also thrown into the middle of a busy road.

DS Dean Gordon, of Birmingham Police, added: "The violence shown against these two girls is completely unacceptable…we will not tolerate this kind of bullying and those involved will be brought to justice."

(MH)