Man and dog attacked in Wanstead Flats

The man in his 50s was walking his dog in Wanstead Flats at around 5pm on Saturday (July 1) when his pet was set upon by a black Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

After separating the fight, a man claiming to be the Staffie’s owner approached and was challenged by the victim about his dog’s behaviour.

Two other men joined and began punching and kicking the victim to the floor. The incident happened near Jubilee Pond off Dames Road in Leytonstone, an area popular with families and hikers.

The three then left and made their way along Ramsay Road, Leytonstone.

When the victim followed them and shouted that he would call the police one of the men showed him a gun and threatened to kill him if he did so.

The dog is described as a black Staffie with grey hair around its muzzle.

The victim was treated for his injuries in hospital and has since been discharged.

Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information on the suspects, who are described as black, to come forward.

Suspect 1 is in his 30s, was wearing a white t-shirt with grey sleeves, jeans and white trainers.

Suspect 2 is in his 20s, was wearing a dark grey tracksuit top and bottoms, white trainers and carrying a side bag. He also had head phones on.

Suspect 3 is aged around 20, was wearing a black long sleeved top with a white logo on the left breast, dark bottoms and white trainers.

Detective Constable Sam Carey, who is leading the investigation for the East Area Command Unit, said: "This was a shocking attack carried out in broad daylight in an area that is frequently used by dog walkers, cyclists and families.

"I would ask anyone who was in the flats around Jubilee Pond at the time of the assault and saw anything to contact police."

Any witnesses, or anyone with any information, can contact DC Carey on 020 8345 2724 or police via 101, or via Twitter @MetCC.

To give information anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org