Passersby ignore hit-run victim

Police are dismayed that a man who was apparently the victim of a hit and run and aggravated robbery incident had his pleas for help ignored by passing motorists on a busy Hamilton street.

Detective Senior Sergeant Karl Thornton of the Hamilton CIB said the 21-year-old was crossing Anglesea St on his way home about 11pm on Tuesday when he was hit by a vehicle, slightly south of the Caro St intersection in the city's CBD.

Mr Thornton said the people in the car, believed to be two men and a woman, got out of their vehicle, approached him and demanded his wallet.

They then took his dark green backpack which had been flung a short distance by the impact.

Mr Thornton said the man managed to dial 111 on his cellphone after his attackers fled.

He was attended to by St John paramedics.

"Fortunately he suffered only minor injuries but was left understandably stunned," he said. "What concerns us is that his cries for help went unanswered by a number of passing motorists in the area."

Major Anthony Stone of the Hamilton Salvation Army hoped witnesses of the incident would come forward.

Mr Thornton said following Tuesday night's New Zealand v Australia cricket match the area was busy as hundreds made their way home from the game. He hopes that someone may recall seeing the incident.

* Anyone who may have information or who knows the identities of those involved is asked to contact him at the Hamilton Central Station on 07 8586200.

* Alternatively information can be left anonymously on the Crimestoppers crimeline, 0800555111.