Police have released an image of a man they want to speak to
Police in London have launched a manhunt after a pensioner was set on fire in the street after being doused in petrol.
The Metropolitan Police were called to West London at around 8pm on Monday, February 27 after the elderly man suffered severe burns.
The horrific incident took place on Singapore Road, police said.
Police have now released an image of a man they want to speak to in connection to the attack.
The attacker spoke to the victim for around five minutes as they both left the West London Islamic Centre. He then doused the victim in a substance believed to be patrol, and set the liquid alight with a lighter.
The 82-year-old received hospital treatment for severe burns to his face and arms, the Mirror reports.
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.
“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.
He added: “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.”
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