Ealing: 82-year-old man set on fire as he left mosque - police release CCTV images

UPDATE 21/3/23: Police are investigating whether the incident is linked to a second, similar reported attack

An elderly man was set on fire as he left a mosque in west London, leaving him with severe burns.

Met Police detectives have released an image of a man they want to speak to after an 82-year-old was set alight on Singapore Road on Monday, February 27.

The attack occurred at about 8pm as the suspect engaged the victim in conversation as they both left the West London Islamic Centre, say police.

They spoke for about five minutes before the suspect doused the victim in a liquid, believed to be petrol, before setting him alight using a lighter.

He then walked away, said detectives.

The victim was taken to hospital where he received treatment for severe burns to his face and arms.

Detective Sergeant Steven Constable said: “I know this will be an incredibly shocking incident for the community and we are carrying out a full investigation into what happened.

“Understandably, there is a great deal of local concern in the wake of this incident and local officers have been carrying out reassurance patrols daily at the mosque.”

He added: “We are continuing to work alongside the West London Islamic Centre who have been very supportive of our investigation and have been assisting us with our enquiries.

“A key part of that is identifying the man in the image we have released. 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.”

If you recognise the man in the image or have any other information that could help the investigation, you can call police on 101 and give reference 6422/27FEB.

Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.