POLICE are searching for a couple who carried out a “deplorable” targeted attack on a 13-year-old boy in Dundee.

A man and a woman approached the boy when he was with friends in a play area next to a primary school car park.

Police Scotland said the pair grabbed him by the arm and assaulted him before getting in a dark car and driving towards him in a threatening manner.

The assault happened at about 4pm on Sunday in Alexander Street.

Following the attack, the couple drove off towards the Hilltown.

Officers said the victim did not seek any medical treatment and the assault was reported to police on Monday.

The bearded male suspect is white and of large build.

Police said there is “no information” on the woman.

The force said inquiries so far indicate the attack was targeted.

Constable Daniel Stirling said: “The suspect is known to the child and extensive efforts are under way to locate the attackers and establish the motive for this attack.

“For an adult to assault a child is utterly deplorable and only proves how cowardly they are.

“I am appealing directly to local people who live in this area. Please speak to us.”