Two teenagers have been arrested after police responded to a violent assault at West Park Recreation Ground in Worthing.
A 13-year-old local boy was with a group of friends in the playground close to Robson Road when he was approached by two boys known to him.
He was assaulted repeatedly before members of the public intervened, and was later taken to hospital for treatment for facial injuries.
The incident, which occurred about 4.50pm on Wednesday 21 July, was reported by a member of public.
Following enquiries, police arrested two boys from Worthing in connection with this incident and two others, all reported to have occurred between 6 and 21 July.
A 13-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm, common assault, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and sending by communication a threatening message.
He has been bailed with strict conditions until 16 August, pending further investigation.
A second 13-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm, common assault, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress.
He has been bailed with strict conditions until 20 August, pending further investigation.
Police are appealing for witnesses to this incident, which occurred about 4.50pm on Wednesday 21 July.
Chief Inspector Sarah Leadbeatter, District Commander for Adur, Worthing and Horsham, said: “This was a violent and unprovoked attack carried out on a young boy who subsequently required hospital treatment.
“This sort of behaviour will absolutely not be tolerated, and we will continue to work with partners including schools, local authorities and the local community to combat youth violence in West Sussex.
“I am keen for anyone who saw what happened, or anyone with any information about the incident, to please come forward.”
You can report it online or call 101, quoting serial 946 of 21/07.
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