Man returning from mosque set alight in Birmingham
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A man was set alight on Shenstone Road in Edgbaston, Birmingham, just after 7pm on 20 March, Monday.
The victim was walking home from Dudley Road mosque, when he was approached by the attacker.
The miscreant spoke to him briefly before spraying the unsuspecting man with an unknown substance and then his jacket was set alight, causing severe burns to his face.
The victim was taken to hospital with serious injuries which are thankfully not believed to be life threatening.
On Monday afternoon, a man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder on Dudley Road, he was identified by officers who were in the area carrying out inquiries following last night’s attack. He remains in custody.
Chief Superintendent Richard North, Commander at Birmingham police, said, “Our officers have been working through the night to establish what happened and who is responsible.
“We are taking this matter extremely seriously and are using all resources available to us. We are keeping an open mind to the motive of the attacker and we won’t speculate further at this stage.
“We’re examining CCTV and speaking to witnesses. I’ve been speaking to people this morning, and so I know just how concerned they are and that people are after answers.
“We are determined to get those answers as soon as possible, and I’d urge the community to work with us and to avoid any speculation at this stage.”
More officers were be in the on Tuesday to speak to the community and provide reassurance.
Chief Superintendent North continued, “Our investigation continues with support from Counter Terrorism Policing West Midlands CTU who have access to specialist capabilities to help establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
“We have officers patrolling the local area to reassure people and we are visiting local faith establishments to keep them informed.
“We would ask the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour to us.
“We are aware of a similar incident in the Ealing area of London and we are working with the Metropolitan Police Service to see whether they are linked.”
Anyone with information has been asked to get in touch on 101 or alternatively, get in touch via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
