A 75-year-old man has been allegedly assaulted in Victoria's north-east for not wearing a face covering, even though he had a medical exemption.
Victoria Police are investigating the unlawful assault, which occurred in Benalla last week.
The man entered a store on Bridge Street about 1.30pm on Friday and told police he was pushed outside the shop by another man.
Police are able to issue fines of $200 to those not wearing face coverings for one of the approved reasons. Credit:Eddie Jim
The victim was allegedly assaulted for not wearing a mask, police said.
"It is believed the victim was not wearing a mask because of a medical exemption," a police spokesman said.
The attacker was pulled away by a female companion and the pair left the scene. Both were wearing masks and were not known to the victim.
The man suffered non-life threatening injuries. No arrests have been made and anyone with information about the incident is being urged to contact police.
Face coverings have been mandatory across all of Victoria since August 3, however there are several exceptions.
Infants and children under the age of 12, those who have a relevant medical condition including breathing problems and those who are deaf or hard of hearing are among those who have lawful excuses to not wear a face covering.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Benalla Police station on 5760 0200 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppervic.com.au.
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