Police’s appeal after shocking acid attack

DETECTIVES hunting a gang who committed an “shocking and unprovoked” acid attack robbery have appealed for witnesses.

A 49-year-old man suffered burns to his face following the attack, which happened at around 9.36pm on Saturday, September 9.

Four teenagers punched and kicked the man in Hawkshead Street, in Southport, before throwing the as yet unknown substance in his face.

His mobile phone and wallet were then stolen by the youths, who are described as three males and a female between the ages of 17 and 19.

The victim’s condition was later described by Merseyside police as “serious but stable”.

Tests are now being carried out to establish what substance was thrown at the victim and an investigation into the incident has been launched.

Officers are conducting forensic and house-to-house inquiries, with CCTV opportunities also being explored.

In the days after the attack, detectives hunting the group have appealed for anyone who may have dashcam footage from the night of the incident to come forward.

A Merseyside police spokesman said: “We are currently making CCTV inquiries but would appeal to anyone who has any footage to come forward.

“This could be dashcam footage taken by road users or even cyclists that were around the area at the time.”

Det Insp Simon Vaughan said: “This was a shocking and completely unprovoked attack on a man who was simply walking home.

“Violent robberies such as this will not be tolerated by Merseyside police and I am sure the local community will agree this is completely unacceptable.

“I would like to reassure the community that incidents of this nature are extremely rare and patrols in the area have been increased. We are determined to find the people responsible for this and would appeal to anyone with information to call us.”

Thugs who carry acid on the streets will face up to four years in prison under a new crackdown announced by prosecutors.

Prosecutors will be told to bring even tougher charges – carrying a maximum life sentence – against those who throw acid, even if no harm is actually caused to the intended victim.

The Crown Prosecution Service said the move was a response to public concern about a spate of horrific attacks and a recognition of the life-changing consequences that can be inflicted by acid and similar substances.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 0151 777 3823 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Police were called to the scene of an acid attack on Hawkshead Street in Southport after a 49-year-old man had an unknown susbtance thrown at his face by a gang who stole his mobile phone and wallet