Teens arrested over 'racist attack' in Willenhall on man, 72

Oprah Flash

3 days ago

Oprah FlashWest Midlands

The victim suffered face and arm injuries in the attack in Willenhall Memorial Park, police said

Six teenagers have been arrested after a 72-year-old man was hurt in what police said they are treating as a racially aggravated attack.

The victim suffered injuries to his face and arm in the assault in Willenhall Memorial Park, in the West Midlands, near Wolverhampton, last Sunday at about 18:00 BST. He needed hospital treatment and was later discharged.

Four other people were also attacked, the force said. The teenage boys, aged between 16 and 18, remain in custody.

"We understand the seriousness of this incident and the concern it has caused in the community," said Supt Gareth Mason of Walsall Police.

Officers were continuing to review CCTV footage and speak to witnesses, a police spokesperson said.

Mason added: "Any form of hate crime will not be tolerated, and we take every report extremely seriously.

"Detectives are keeping the victim and his family informed and are supporting them through our investigation."

Police patrols have been increased in the area and the force urged witnesses to contact them.