A horrifying ‘substance attack’ inside the Golden Lion pub in Jay’s Close, Basingstoke, has left a 52-year-old woman with burns on her back and head, prompting a police manhunt for the suspect responsible.
The distressing incident occurred between 9.30pm and 10pm on Saturday, leaving the victim severely traumatized. She suffered reddening to her skin, and blisters and had to undergo a drastic haircut due to matting caused by the substance.
According to reports, the woman was walking through the crowded pub when the unknown substance was thrown at her back and head. Hampshire Constabulary is actively investigating the incident, appealing for witnesses to come forward and provide any relevant information or footage.
While police work to establish the nature of the substance used in the attack, they have confirmed that it is not believed to be acid. Two men, aged 48 and 53 and both from Basingstoke, have been arrested on suspicion of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent. They have been released on bail pending further inquiries until May 10.
In the wake of this appalling assault, concerns have been raised over a recent surge in ‘acid attacks,‘ with charities highlighting the increasing vulnerability of female victims. According to the Acid Survivors Trust International (Asti) charity, the number of acid attacks rose by 45 per cent last year in London and a staggering 69 per cent across England and Wales.
Recent incidents, including a harrowing attack on a mother and her two daughters in Clapham, London, have drawn significant media attention. The mother remains hospitalized, with fears that she may lose her right eye as a result of the attack.
Police have been searching for Abdul Ezedi in connection with the Clapham incident, although concerns have been raised that he may have jumped into the Thames River and met with an unfortunate fate. Meanwhile, a separate incident involving a man threatening bus passengers with a corrosive substance in Brixton has further heightened concerns about public safety.
The disturbing trend continues, with a man suffering burns to the back of his head after being attacked with a ‘noxious substance’ in a Ramsgate graveyard. Kent Police have launched a manhunt in connection with this incident.
Anyone with information regarding the Basingstoke pub attack or any other related incidents is urged to contact Hampshire Constabulary or provide information anonymously through Crimestoppers.
