Mangle ‘acid attack’: second victim goes blind in one eye as police make arrest

Arthur Collins is wanted in connection with the Mangle ‘acid attack’ Photograph: Metropolitan Police

A 24-year-old man has become the second person to go blind in one eye following the horrific acid attack at a London Fields nightclub, police have confirmed.

Twenty partygoers suffered burns when a “noxious substance” was sprayed inside the venue following a row in the early hours of Easter Monday.

Police revealed today that one of two men believed to have been the targets of the attack has now lost sight in one eye. Both men were being treated at a specialist burns unit in Essex but have since been discharged.

It follows news yesterday that a 22-year-old woman has gone blind in her left eye.

Police also confirmed today that they have arrested one of three men wanted in connection with the attack.

The 21-year-old remains in custody after police picked him up at an address in north London on suspicion of GBH.

But 25-year-old Arthur Collins, believed to be the boyfriend of TV star Ferne McCann, is still at large.

Officers have appealed to the public for information on Collins’ whereabouts but warned people not to approach him.

Detective Inspector Lee McCullough from Hackney CID said: “This investigation continues to move at great pace and the net is closing in on those we believe to be responsible.

“My team continues to act on a number of leads to bring in those wanted for questioning in relation to this awful incident.

“I am continuing to appeal to Arthur Collins and another man who was seen with him to hand themselves in so that we can talk to them about the incident in the nightclub. I would also urge anyone who knows of his whereabouts to contact police.

“Equally, anyone found harbouring those wanted for questioning by police can expect a knock at the door and could well find themselves under arrest.

“The noxious substance used has not yet been confirmed but samples retrieved from the scene have been sent for analysis. If you were there and saw anyone involved inside or leaving the nightclub, please get in touch.”

Anyone with information that may assist police should call detectives from Hackney CID via 101 or via Twitter @MetCC. To remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.