The Metropolitan Police are searching for a suspect who they believe set fire to an elderly pensioner outside a west London mosque last month.
On February 27, around 8pm, the man allegedly doused an 82-year-old man in a liquid believed to be petrol before setting him on fire using a lighter. The incident occurred outside the West London Islamic Centre on Singapore Road in Ealing.
The police have released CCTV images of the suspect and are urging anyone who recognises him to come forward.
Detectives say that the man engaged with the victim in conversation for around five minutes as they both left the mosque before launching the attack.
The suspect then strolled away from the scene. The elderly gentleman was taken to the hospital, where he received treatment for severe burns to his arms and face.
Detective Sergeant Steven Constable said that they are carrying out a full investigation into what happened and that there is a great deal of local concern in the wake of this incident.
Local officers have been carrying out reassurance patrols daily at the mosque, and they are continuing to work alongside the West London Islamic Centre, who have been very supportive of their investigation and have been assisting with their inquiries.
In urging the public to come forward, Constable said, “If you recognise this man, I would urge you to get in touch, either directly with police or, to remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers.
I would also urge anyone who witnessed this incident and has not yet spoken to police to please get in touch.” Anyone who recognises the suspect or has further information is urged to call the police on 101, quoting reference 6422/27FEB.
»Suspect Sought After Mosque Attack«
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