Police are seeking public assistance following a robbery in Alice Springs over the weekend.

Detective Superintendent Brent Warren said a 31-year-old woman was walking along Gap Road with two friends at around 3:30am Saturday.

“The woman was walking approximately 20 metres in front of her friends when she was approached and grabbed by an unknown man.

“The man stole the woman’s handbag and fled down Gap Road before turning left into Hayes Street.”

“The offender is described as being of Aboriginal appearance, aged in his 20’s, with an athletic build, and of average height. He was wearing a dark coloured shirt and shorts rolled up at the knees.”

The woman’s handbag was later recovered by a member of the public and returned to her.

Police urge anyone who may have witnessed this incident or anyone who may have any further information to contact Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.