Man arrested on suspicion of two separate fire attacks near mosques
A man held after a pensioner was set on fire as he left a Birmingham mosque has been arrested over a similar attack in London.
Mohammed Rayaz, 70, remains in intensive care following an incident in Edgbaston, Birmingham.
On Tuesday, 21 March, officers from West Midlands Police arrested a man on suspicion of attempted murder.
Following joint enquiries, the incident in Birmingham and an incident where a man was set on fire in Ealing, London have now been linked.
The man has been arrested on suspicion of two counts of attempted murder.
Chief Superintendent Sean Wilson, of the Met’s West Area Command, said: ‘We completely understand the shock that resonated throughout the community following this incident.
‘Despite a man having been arrested, we continue to be vigilant and urge local people to do the same. Highly visible patrols around Singapore Road will continue in the coming days to provide reassurance to local people and I urge anyone who is concerned to approach officers.’
In the London attack, the suspect engaged a victim in conversation as they both left the West London Islamic Centre.
They had been speaking for around five minutes when the suspect doused the victim in a liquid, believed to be petrol, before setting him alight using a lighter.
The suspect then walked away.
The victim was taken to hospital where he received treatment for severe burns to his face and arms.
West Midlands Police said: ‘At this stage we cannot speculate around the motive for the attacks, this is a live investigation and our main aim is to make sure communities are safe and that we bring justice for the victims.’
Anyone with information has been asked to get in touch on 101 or alternatively, get in touch via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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