Citizen's arrest after woman allegedly stabbed by stranger in Melbourne

A woman has allegedly been stabbed by a stranger on a busy inner-city road in Melbourne this morning.

Police said the 29-year-old woman was walking along Hotham Street in St Kilda East when she was approached by a man, who allegedly slashed her on the arm with a knife about 8.40am.

The man allegedly attempted to flee the scene before several witnesses performed a citizen's arrest.

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Police arrested a 44-year-old St Kilda East man at the scene.

He was taken to hospital under police guard with minor injuries.

The victim suffered a slash wound to her arm and was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Another man, 30, who assisted in the citizen's arrest was also taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Police allege the parties were not known to each other.

"At this early stage in the investigation, there is nothing to suggest that the incident was religiously motivated," police said.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, has CCTV/dashcam footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au