London Constable Attacked by Thieves

Ned Donovan, the grandson of famed children's author Roald Dahl, was assaulted by a gang after attempting to detain a pickpocket in central London. The incident occurred on Monday afternoon while Donovan, 30, was off duty and volunteering as a special constable with the Metropolitan Police. He witnessed a man reaching into a woman's handbag on Westminster Bridge and intervened, bringing the suspect to the ground. Despite Donovan's call for assistance from a crowd of approximately 30 onlookers, many chose to record the altercation rather than help. As he struggled to hold the suspect, Donovan was attacked by the pickpocket's accomplices, who overwhelmed him until he released the man. The situation escalated quickly, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals attempting to intervene in criminal activity. Donovan, who is the son of Tessa Dahl and the half-brother of writer and model Sophie Dahl, expressed disappointment at the lack of support from bystanders during the incident. The event raises questions about public responsibility and the role of citizens in preventing crime, particularly in urban areas where such occurrences are not uncommon. The Metropolitan Police have been informed of the incident, and it serves as a reminder of the risks involved in taking action against crime without proper support. Donovan's experience underscores the importance of community cooperation in ensuring safety and security in public spaces.