Man suffers burns to his face after being attacked while walking home from a mosque in Birmingham

A man was set on fire while walking home from a mosque in Birmingham on Monday evening (March 20)

The incident took place on Brixham Road in Edgbaston, just after 7pm. It’s believed the man, who was walking home from Dudley Road mosque, was approached by another man.

Police said that the attacker spoke to the victim briefly before spraying him with an unknown substance. His jacket was set alight, causing burns to his face. West Midlands Police said he was taken to hospital with serious injuries which are not believed to be life threatening.

A video has been circulating on social media showing a man being set alight, police said they are examining it as part of their investigations. Extra officers will be in the area today to speak to the community and to provide reassurance.

What has West Midlands Police said about the incident?

Supt James Spencer, from Birmingham police, said: “Our officers have been working through the night to establish what happened and who is responsible. We’re examining CCTV and speaking to witnesses and are determined to find out who is responsible.

“I’ve been speaking to people in this morning, and so I know just how concerned they are and that people are after answers.We are determined to find the person responsible and 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.”

Anyone with information has been asked to get in touch with police via Live Chat, quoting log 4009 of 21 March. Alternatively, get in touch via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

What Birmingham City Council has said about the attack?

Leader Cllr Ian Ward, Cllr John Cotton, Cabinet Member for Social Justice, Community Safety and Equalities, and ward councillors Cllr Sharon Thompson and Cllr Marcus Bernasconi, said:

“This was a horrific attack and our thoughts are with the victim and his family at such a distressing time. Councillors and the Community Safety team are speaking to the family and West Midlands Police. We will continue to offer our support.

“Council officers, local councillors and MP have also been engaging with community groups and local mosques to offer support to the wider community. We would urge the community to work with the police and to avoid any speculation at this stage – and also like to thank them for their willingness to share information on this incident.”