A MAN shouted ‘I’ve got acid’ before squirting what’s thought to be cleaning fluid in the face of a drinker outside a Solihull pub.
Police have released clear CCTV images of the attacker who leapt from a car in Main Street, Dickens Heath, on Tuesday night before firing liquid from a bottle at a group of people outside The Chalice.
The substance hit one man in the face before the thug was driven away by an accomplice; the victim splashed water over his face and escaped unhurt.
IPC Dave Spencer, from Solihull Police’s investigation team, urged anyone who recognises the man to get in touch.
He said: “Given the recent spate of acid attacks in London this was a hugely irresponsible act and very scary for the victim. The attacker shouted ‘I’ve got acid’ but we believe it was actually an ammonia-based cleaning fluid.
“The victim was wearing glasses which prevented the substance going into his eyes and he reacted quickly by picking up a dog bowl of water and throwing it over his face. He didn’t report feeling any burning sensation and was thankfully unhurt.
“It’s understood the attacker was in a car being driven anti-socially in Main Street and, when the group shouted for them to slow down, the pair jumped out and confronted them.
“We need to know who this man is and I’d urge anyone with information to contact me on the 101 number or call Crimestoppers anonymously.”
The attacker − who struck at around 8pm on Tuesday − was dressed in a blue T-shirt, beige shorts, shoes and with a ‘man bag’ across his shoulder; he has dark hair, a closely cropped beard and is believed to be in his 20s.
Meanwhile, West Midlands Police have arrested a man suspected of driving the car, seized a vehicle and also recovered a bottle containing a clear liquid.
A 21-year-old man from Solihull has been charged with a public order offence and is due to appear at Birmingham Magistrates Court on August 16.
Anyone who believes they recognise the attacker is asked to contact PC Spencer via 101 (ext: 891 3092) or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
