A visitor suffered facial injuries when he was assaulted by three robbers who stole his cash, jewellery and other belongings.

In the latest in a string of attacks on visitors to Bermuda, the 24-year-old American was set upon by the gang as he walked along Penno’s Drive, St. George’s on Sunday, at 12.30 a.m.

Police say the men initially attempted to befriend the victim, but he ran away when he grew suspicious of their behaviour.

They then chased after him before assaulting him and stealing his Discman, gold chain with a cross pendant and wallet containing cash and personal items. The American suffered a bruised right cheek and abrasion to his right elbow in the incident. Officers are hunting the offenders, who escaped immediately afterwards.

Reacting last night, St. George’s Mayor Mariea Caisey called for Police to be stationed in the town 24 hours a day.

“It’s unfortunate. This is what I’ve been saying all along. Something terrible is going to happen. We have got to get Police patrols in the Town of St. George 24 hours,” said Mayor Caisey.

“We are a town. We are not just a parish, we are a living and breathing town. We have got nightclubs and restaurants. We are going to have people walking the streets at night.

“Our visitors have to feel as if they are safe. Anybody should be able to stroll around and feel safe.”

Earlier this month, an American husband and wife needed hospital treatment after they were attacked and robbed at gunpoint by thieves who broke into their guesthouse. The man suffered broken ribs while the woman’s face was severely bruised.

Police described the location of that incident as the East End but refused to be more specific — although last night Mayor Caisey insisted it did not happen in St. George’s.

“This incident (Sunday morning’s) is our first for the summer. I hope it’s going to be the last,” she said.

Last night, Shadow Tourism Minister David Dodwell repeated his previous call for tougher penalties against people who offend against tourists. “Clearly, I’m upset for the people who have been attacked,” said Mr. Dodwell.

“You can get all the marketing in the world to bring people here, but if this sort of thing happens it just sends a horrible message back about the areas we are promoting.

“We need to make a crime against a visitor a crime against the economy. If you attack a visitor or burgle a visitor’s room, the penalties should be higher. It is a crime which penalises everyone on the Island.”

Crimes against tourists in recent weeks include a raid on a Southampton guesthouse and the mugging of a woman attempting to get on a bus outside the Fairmont Southampton Princess, both last month. Witnesses to the Penno’s Drive incident are urged to contact Police. One suspect is described as light-brown skinned, of medium build, with a round face and short dark hair, wearing a red shirt. Another was light skinned, slim and riding a black auxiliary cycle or motorcycle. The third was dark skinned and slim.

Call Southside Police Station on 293-2222.