A teenage boy has been arrested after a delivery driver had acid repeatedly thrown in his face in an attack likely to blind him permanently.

The driver, 32, is now fighting for his life in hospital after he was attacked while at work in Walpole Road, Walthamstow yesterday evening (Thursday, November 2) at around 6pm.

He was approached by two men on a scooter, who attempted to steal the delivery driver’s moped, throwing acid in his face multiple times.

He was treated at the scene by paramedics and later taken to hospital, where he remains in a life-threatening condition and is likely to be permanently blinded.

Police confirmed this afternoon a teenage boy had been arrested on suspicion of GBH in connection with the attack.

He is currently being questioned at an east London police station.

Detective Chief Inspector Gordon Henderson, of Waltham Forest CID, said: "This attack has left a man fighting for his life and with terrible eye injuries.

“This was an innocent man going about his work as a delivery driver, who may never see again.

“This is not a time to hesitate, if you have any information about this crime I would appeal that you immediately call police.

“Your phone call could save some other innocent person; it is imperative that we arrest those responsible."

Around half an hour after the attack, a second person was also attacked with acid in Yarmouth Crescent, Tottenham.

This man, also a 32-year-old delivery driver, was approached by two men on a scooter who attempted to steal his moped. Again a corrosive substance sprayed on his face.

This man was also treated in hospital, but his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing.

It has not been established whether the two incidents are linked, but police are investigating the possibility.

  • Anyone with information about either attack is asked to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on: 0800 555 111