Police have launched an investigation into a disturbing dog attack in Coventry that left two people requiring urgent hospital treatment. A man and a woman, understood to be in their 20s, were seriously injured after they were set upon by a dog believed to be an XL Bully - a breed the UK government is keen to ban.

The attack happened in a block of flats in Purcell Road, Bell Green, at around 4pm on Thursday (28). "The incident took place inside a flat but the dog then escaped into a communal area of the building," a West Midlands Police spokesperson said.

"In order to bring the incident to a safe conclusion, officers Tasered the dog, which is believed to be an XL Bully, and then contained it carefully in a nearby wheelie bin to ensure the public’s safety and so the victims could be accessed and receive treatment."

READ MORE: 'XL Bully' dog attack live after woman and man bitten in Purcell Road in Coventry

The spokesperson added: "Those injured were known to the owner. Our enquiries are continuing and no arrests have been made at this stage.

"We understand this was a very distressing incident for anyone who witnessed it and as a force we are taking serious action against dangerous dogs and their owners. We will also be having extra officers in the area to offer reassurance. A decision has been made by the owner to put the dog to sleep."

Witnesses or people with information should contact the force via Live Chat on its website or by calling 101, quoting crime investigation number 20/849096/23.

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