Woman assaulted in East Melbourne

Melbourne East police are hoping to identify a man after a woman was assaulted in East Melbourne on 5 January.

Police have been told a 24-year-old woman went for a walk through Yarra Park near Wellington Parade and was talking on her phone about 6.30pm.

An unknown man bumped into her a couple of times and she continued to walk towards the Fitzroy Gardens

The victim was standing near the fairy tree in the Fitzroy gardens when the same man approached her just before 7pm and punched her in the face.

She then ran to a group of people at a nearby playground and raised the alarm.

The offender believed to be aged 40 to 45-years-old fled the scene.

He is described as Caucasian in appearance, 170cm tall, brown eyes, brown hair, facial hair with a solid build.

He was wearing a dark green jacket with a t-shirt underneath and green pants.

Police have released a digital image of a man that may be able to assist with their enquiries.

Investigators are keen to speak to any witnesses or anyone that may have been in the area at the time of the assault.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

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