BIRMINGHAM, England

AA – An 82 year old Muslim man was burned while walking home from the Dudley Road Mosque, in Birmingham, United Kingdom.

West Midlands County Police said a man was arrested on suspicion attempted murder of parents.

According to security forces, the assailant briefly spoke with the victim before dousing him with an unknown substance and setting his jacket on fire, causing burns to his face.

“He was taken to hospital with serious injuries which thankfully are not believed to be life threatening,” said Birmingham Police Commander Richard North.

“We saw the security cameras and spoke to witnesses. I have spoken to people this morning so I know how worried they are and people are looking for answers. We are determined to get those answers as soon as possible, and I urge the community to cooperate with us and avoid any speculation at this stage,” North added.

Police said they were aware of a similar incident that occurred in west London on February 27 and were working together Metropolitan Police to find possible links.

North said the investigation is continuing with support from the Counter-Terrorism Police, who have access to special capabilities to help establish all the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“We have officers patrolling the local area to reassure people and visiting local religious institutions to inform them. We will ask the public to be alert and report suspicious behavior to us.”

*Aicha Sandoval Alaguna contributed to writing this note.