Police described yesterday's incident involving the assault of an elderly man as an "unusual, terrible act" and did not want people to shop in fear.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Chief Inspector Greg Flood of Batemans Bay Police said Moruya was a town with a "real sense of community" and the assault was out of the ordinary.
The 83-year-old Batemans Bay man was about Moruya doing his business when he was mugged just before 2.30pm on Tuesday, July 20.
"He had parked his car at the back of Harris Scarfe and entered the Courthouse Arcade to do some business," Inspector Flood said.
"He exited not long after, walked down the back ramp where the offender then grabbed him in a bear hug and there was a bit of a wrestle."
The offender took the man's car keys and fled.
Inspector Flood said a witness came to the aid of the elderly man who was knocked to the ground. He had some injuries and was taken to Moruya hospital in a stable condition.
Inspector Flood said the offender stole the man's vehicle and drove off northbound along the Princes Highway.
Police said the vehicle was a 2001 Holden Commodore, bronze in colour and has NSW registration ATZ 12F.
He said the assault was "offensive to everyone who lives in the Eurobodalla".
"It is not common at all and very irregular," Inspector Flood said.
"Don't be fearful to walk down the street because of this one incident."
He said police were working towards a resolution and had received photos that may assist in the investigation.
The male was described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 175cm tall and of solid build.
Anyone with information was urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Batemans Bay Police on 4472 0099.