Second teenager arrested over ‘barbaric’ acid attacks

Photograph: Ray Forster

A 15-year-old boy is the second person to be arrested in connection with a spate of “hideous” acid attacks last night.

Two males on a moped doused people with a corrosive substance in five “linked” attacks in the space of 90 minutes across Hackney and Islington. They stole a moped in two of the incidents.

Police, who are appealing for any witnesses to come forward, said one victim has been left with “life-changing” injuries.

Officers made the second arrest this morning at an address in Stoke Newington, having taken a 16-year-old male into custody last night. Both have been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and robbery.

Chief Inspector Ben Clark, from Hackney police, said: “This is a fast moving investigation and we have made two arrests today. However, I would like to ask the public for their help. Each of these offences took place in busy locations and we know there may be witnesses who have not yet contacted us. If you saw something or managed to film or photograph anything that might help us please get in touch.

“These are hideous offences and must have been very frightening for all of the victims. I’m aware of rumours circulating that the victims were all food delivery riders set up in advance of the attacks. This is not the case. All victims were riding mopeds at the time of the attacks, but were from a variety of backgrounds.

“Of late we have seen more attacks using corrosive substances in London. I would urge businesses and parents to challenge those who they think may be trying to obtain or carry these substances as this could help prevent serious offences and life changing injuries being caused.”

Speaking to LBC Radio earlier today, Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick described the attacks as “completely barbaric”.

Any witnesses, anyone with information or in possession of footage of these incidents should contact police via 101 or via Twitter @MetCC.

To give information anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.