Police are searching for a suspect who they believe is responsible for setting an 82-year-old man on fire outside a mosque in Ealing, West London. The Metropolitan police have released an

image of the suspect, who allegedly doused the victim in a flammable liquid, believed to be petrol, before setting him on fire using a lighter on February 27th at around 8 pm.

The victim was leaving the West London Islamic Centre in Ealing when the suspect engaged him in conversation for approximately five minutes before attacking him on Singapore Road. After the attack, the suspect walked away, leaving the 82-year-old victim severely burned on his face and arms. He was taken to the hospital, where he received treatment for his injuries.

DS Steven Constable, who is leading the investigation, urged anyone who recognises the suspect to contact the police. He stated that he understands that this is an incredibly shocking incident for the community and that a full investigation is underway to determine what happened. Local officers have been carrying out reassurance patrols daily at the mosque to address the concerns of the community.

Constable said that the West London Islamic Centre has been supportive of the police's investigation and has been assisting them in their inquiries. Identifying the man in the released image is a crucial part of their investigation. He called on anyone who recognises the suspect to contact the police directly or, to remain anonymous, to contact Crimestoppers.

This incident has understandably caused a great deal of local concern. The police are taking the matter very seriously and are working diligently to bring the perpetrator to justice. The community has been reassured that they are doing everything they can to ensure their safety and security. The police have also stated that they will not tolerate any form of hate crime or violence, and that anyone responsible for such acts will be held accountable for their actions.

It is deeply disturbing that such a heinous crime was committed against an elderly man leaving a mosque. The police investigation will hopefully lead to the arrest and conviction of the perpetrator. In the meantime, it is important that anyone who has any information about the attack comes forward and provides it to the authorities. This will help them in their investigation and bring closure to the victim and his family. Photo by Dani 7C3, Wikimedia commons.