Harry Aboud
Over £10,000 Raised For Victim Of Walthamstow Acid Attack
On Thursday 2nd November, in East London a 32-year-old fast food delivery driver (no given name), was assaulted 2 men in an effort to steal his moped. The 2 attackers throw acid in the driver’s face; it was initially feared he would be permanently blind, but doctors hope he will still have his vision. Initially 2 teenagers were arrested on suspicion of being connected to the incident, but have now been released; however, they are still under investigation. Police are currently concerned with the potential fact that corrosive liquid is replacing knives as ideal weapons for robbers. 43-year-old Najma Bhatti from Walthamstow created a page on the 4th hoping to raise £5,000. However, donations have managed to reach £10,854, as of now. One individual gave as much as £3,000. Delighted with the level of contributions Bhatti stated: “I, like everyone in the area, have been really shocked by this attack and just felt compelled to do something. He is so young and it seemed like such a vicious attack. I know the money can’t take away what happened to him, but if there’s any way to take the pressure off him and his family, that’s something.” Philip Healthy, who donated £50, stated: “We had kebabs delivered by him recently. He seemed cheerful, nice, and friendly. You hear about these things going on in London, but when it’s this close to home your heart just sinks. This attack made me feel sick to my stomach – filled with a mixture of anger, sorrow, dismay, and frustration.” The victim’s face, throat, and oesophagus have all been seriously injured. Metropolitan police officer stated: “The victim’s eye injuries may not be as serious as first feared, but we await the results of further tests and treatment.” The government has also tried to help by placing stricter controls on the selling of acid and a law which makes it illegal to carry acid in public places, has been set forward. This incident, as horrible as it was, stands as a testimony to the great things people in a community can do for one another if they all simply work together.
