Police investigating an assault where a Southland man was lured out of his home to help a woman allegedly in need before being bashed unconscious are appealing for the public’s help.

The assault happened near the corner of Melvin St and Turner St in Edendale about 10.55pm on Saturday, November 15.

It started when a woman went to the victim’s house asking for assistance with a flat tyre.

The victim was then accosted and assaulted by a man, suffering serious injuries.

“This was a particularly vicious and unprovoked assault, where the victim was beaten unconscious and suffered serious injuries, including a fractured eye socket and a broken nose,” said Detective Sergeant Brian McKinney of Gore CIB.

“Concerningly, after the victim lost consciousness, the offenders attempted to restrain him by taping his hands together behind his back.

“We believe the outcome for the victim could have been much worse given the severity of this attack.”

McKinney thanked those who have already contacted police after their earlier appeal for information and CCTV footage.

“Police have reviewed a range of CCTV footage as a result, which has enabled us to obtain descriptions of the woman and man involved in the incident,” he said.

The woman is described as being in her late teens or early 20s, of slim build, and approximately 175cm tall. She was wearing knee-high black boots, shorts, and a light-coloured hooded top. She is also described as wearing a long black wig.

The man is described as having a slim build and is approximately 175–185cm tall. He was wearing light-coloured (possibly grey) track pants with zip-up pockets, ankle-high boots with a dark-coloured sole, a light-coloured hooded top, and black gloves.

“If you can help us identify the man and woman involved or have any other information which might assist our enquiries, please contact us via 105 and quote file number 251116/4977,” McKinney said.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.