Nanaimo RCMP are asking the public for help concerning a possible domestic assault and abduction.
The incident happened at about 10 a.m. Wednesday on the 100 block of Skinner Street near the Bastion Street parkade.
According to police, witnesses reported hearing a woman scream. When they went outside to investigate, they saw a man hit a woman several times with a closed fist and then drag her to a vehicle nearby.
The vehicle, described as a gold or beige Buick, sped off on Benson Street and was last seen heading toward Comox Road.
Multiple officers responded to the scene and patrolled the area for the vehicle, but did not find it or its occupants.
There have been no further reports of the suspect or the vehicle, which has not been located, and, so far, the female victim has not come forward to report the incident.
“Officers canvassed the area extensively to determine if there were any video surveillance, but unfortunately none was found,” said Const. Gary O’Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesman, in a press release. “We are at the point now in the investigation where assistance from the public is required to further this investigation.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at www.nanaimocrimestoppers.com, text 274637, keyword Nanaimo or call 1-800-222-8477.