Counter terrorism police investigate potential Ealing link to man set on fire walking from Birmingham mosque

Counter terrorism police are investigating an attack on a man who suffered facial burns as he made his way home from a mosque in Birmingham.

Officers said they 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. They have asked the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour to them.

The victim was attacked as he walked along Shenstone Road in Edgbaston just after 7pm yesterday (Monday, March 20) after leaving Dudley Road Mosque. West Midlands Police said that the assailant spoke to the man briefly before spraying an unknown substance and then his jacket was set alight - causing burns to his face.

The victim was taken to hospital with serious injuries - which are not believed to be life threatening. Officers have arrested a man on suspicion of attempted murder this afternoon (Tuesday, March 21).

Police said he was identified by officers who were in the area carrying out inquiries. He remains in police custody as further investigations take place and extra patrols are in the area to offer reassurance to residents.

Chief Supt Richard North, Commander at Birmingham police, said: “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.”

He further explained: 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.”

Anyone with information has been asked to get in touch on 101 or alternatively, get in touch via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Birmingham MP reacts to the Shentstone Lane attack

Shabana Mahmood MP for Ladywood said: “The attack on one of our elders on Shenstone Road was a truly shocking incident that has rocked our community. My thoughts and prayers are very much with the victim and his family, who are known to me and I am in close contact with them.

“Understandably, everyone in the community has been horrified and are incredibly concerned. I am reassured that the investigation is continuing at pace and that an arrest has been made. I am also very grateful to the police for the increased resources and police presence in and around our area.

“The response from the local community has been heart-warming. There has been an outpouring of support for the victim and his family and we are grateful to residents who shared key information and CCTV footage with the police immediately. I urge everyone to refrain from speculation about the circumstances of the attack. We must all let the police get on with the investigation.”

What happened in Ealing, London?

An elderly man was set on fire as he left a mosque in west London, leaving him with severe burns. Met Police detectives have released an image of a man they want to speak to after an 82-year-old was set alight on Singapore Road on Monday, February 27.

The attack occurred at about 8pm as the suspect engaged the victim in conversation as they both left the West London Islamic Centre, say police. They spoke for about five minutes before the suspect doused the victim in a liquid, believed to be petrol, before setting him alight using a lighter.

He then walked away, said detectives. The victim was taken to hospital where he received treatment for severe burns to his face and arms. Detective Sergeant Steven Constable said at the time: “I know this will be an incredibly shocking incident for the community and we are carrying out a full investigation into what happened. Understandably, there is a great deal of local concern in the wake of this incident and local officers have been carrying out reassurance patrols daily at the mosque.”