A WOMAN has been punched in the head as she fought off three youths during an attempted carjacking in Bentleigh this morning.

Police believe one male and two female teenagers approached the 53-year-old victim about 10am as she was getting into her car in a Bent St supermarket car park.

Police spokeswoman Sophie Jennings said the young male unsuccessfully attempted to snatch the woman’s car keys, then punched her in the head.

“The two females then stole the woman’s handbag and all three offenders then ran off and got onto a nearby bus,” said Ms Jennings.

“The woman chased the teens on to the bus and was further assaulted before managing to retrieve her handbag.”

The trio then got off the bus, ran to the nearby Bentleigh train station and got on a city-bound train.

“The woman sustained injuries to her face and was treated at the scene by paramedics.”

The male is described as being 15-18 years old, of caucasian appearance, with a solid build, blond hair and wearing a black jumper over a white T-shirt with blue pants.

The first female is described as being 15-18 years old, with long curly dark hair and was wearing a grey/black T-shirt with blue pants.

The second female is described as being 15-18 years old, of caucasian appearance, with dark hair and wearing a grey hoodie, black handbag and dark grey leggings.

Police are appealing for any witnesses to the incidents and are particularly interested in speaking to three tradesmen who spoke to the youths on the train platform before they got on the train.

Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.