A vigilante wrestled a mugger to the ground after he had tried a ride-by purse snatch and then attacked his female victim when she fell to the ground.

Two tourists were riding at Albouy's Point at lunchtime on Sunday when another rider with a child on the back rode past them, did a u-turn and then rode between them.

The 31-year-old suspect, from Devonshire, tried to grab a purse from one of them but she held on and the two struggled causing her fall.

The suspect then dismounted and began punching her but her screams were heard and a member of the public ran to her assistance and wrestled the suspect to the ground and kept him until Police arrived.

The 12-year-old who was riding on the back of the suspect's bike has been arrested.

A Police spokesman said: "Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances of why a 12-year-old boy was accompanying a person committing a crime."

Police said the victim suffered slight injuries in the attack and they have praised the actions of the man who ran to her aid.

A spokesman said: "The Bermuda Police service would like to commend the Good Samaritan for his actions and thank him and all members of the public who continue to assist the Police in keeping the community safe."

Witnesses should call Detective Constable Dean Martin of central CID on 299 4545.