Acid attacks and other offenses involving corrosive substances in the UK have seen a significant increase of 75% in the past year, according to recent figures. However, only 8% of these cases have resulted in criminal charges or a court summons. The total number of recorded offenses in 2023, as revealed through freedom of information requests, was 1,244, a stark rise from 710 in the previous year.
These offenses include 454 physical attacks and 790 other alleged incidents, such as carrying corrosives and threats of acid attacks to facilitate crimes like robbery or rape. Acid Survivors Trust International (ASTI) obtained this data and highlighted that the actual numbers may be higher due to underreporting and the lack of response from Police Scotland.
Jaf Shah, the executive director at ASTI, emphasized the importance of focusing on prevention strategies similar to those in place for gun and knife crimes. He called for increased funding for prevention initiatives and addressing the underlying causes that contribute to acid attacks and violent crime, such as socioeconomic inequality and lack of opportunities for young individuals. Additionally, Shah stressed the need for stricter enforcement of existing regulations to prevent corrosive substances from being used as weapons.
While historically, acid attacks have been associated with male-on-male violence, there is a concerning trend of increasing attacks targeting women and girls. Gender data available indicates that 50% of all victims of corrosive offenses are women, with this number rising to 59% for threats of violence.
Professor Francisco Figueiredo from Newcastle University expressed alarm over the rise in acid attacks, particularly in the north-east of England. He noted that 80% of victims in the area are young Caucasian males, with a significant percentage of cases going unreported. Figueiredo highlighted the prevalence of ammonia as a common chemical used in attacks in the north-east region.
The use of corrosive substances to cause harm, particularly ocular injuries, is a growing concern in the UK. Figueiredo stressed the need for further investigation to raise public awareness, implement stricter regulations, enhance surveillance, prevention measures, and provide adequate support to victims.
An incident in February involved Abdul Ezedi, who was found dead in the River Thames after allegedly attacking a woman and her daughters with a corrosive substance in south London. Passersby and police officers were also injured during the incident.
Fear of reprisals may be a significant factor in preventing victims from supporting further action, as 32% of cases in the FOI data involved victims identifying suspects but not pursuing legal action. This highlights the need for enhanced support and protection for those affected by acid attacks and corrosive offenses in the UK.