A man was doused in suspected bleach in an attack at a busy market in Hackney on Thursday afternoon.
The man was sprayed with what is believed to be a corrosive liquid while walking through Hackney’s historic Broadway Market at around 1.40pm.
Officers have put a cordon in place in the area, and a man was later arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm.
The victim is thought to have been given first aid by a member of the public and the emergency services.
Pictures from the scene show a significant emergency services presence, including ambulance cars, with a witness describing it as “total gridlock”.
Broadway Market, E8 Hackney right now. Total gridlock. #EastLondon pic.twitter.com/Xe7iFtJDhv
— Mister Kris Turnbull (@artdirectionk) November 14, 2024
A Met Police spokesperson said: “Police were called at about 13:40hrs on Thursday, 14 November to reports of an assault at Broadway Market, E8.
“Emergency services attended and were informed that a substance, believed to be bleach, had been poured on to a man at the location.
“Officers attended and with the assistance of a member of the public provided the man with first aid.
“He was treated at the scene by the London Ambulance Service.
“A man has been arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm. He remains in custody. Enquiries continue.”
A spokesperson for the London Ambulance Service said the man declined “further treatment” at the scene.
“We were called at 1.40pm today (14 November) to reports of an assault on Broadway Market, E8,” the spokesperson said.
“We sent resources, including an ambulance crew, an incident response officer and members of our tactical response unit.
“We assessed a patient at the scene, but they declined further treatment.”
Drivers have been warned to avoid the area because of the closure of nearby Westgate Street, Hackney Council said.
