Teen with Asperger’s had chemicals thrown in his face before his scooter was stolen

A vulnerable teen had chemicals thrown in his face before being robbed by a gang, police have said.

The young man from Wigan, who has Asperger’s Syndrome, was sitting on a bench when he had his scooter stolen.

He is said to have been in Westleigh Park when he was approached by a group of men at around 7pm on Tuesday.

The group then threw a substance – believed to be ammonia – into his face, and punched him, before making off with his electric scooter.

The victim was treated in hospital for minor injuries to his face but has since been discharged.

Police say he has been left ‘incredibly shaken’ by the incident.

Officers were called to a report of a robbery on December 21 and are appealing for information to track down the offenders.

Detective Inspector Patrick Wood, of GMP Wigan CID, said: “This was an awful attack on a vulnerable man with Asperger’s.

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“The attack has left him incredibly shaken and I would strongly appeal for anyone with information about this incident – including who the offenders may be or the location of the Xiaomai Electric Scooter – to please contact police as soon as possible.

“This kind of attack is both cowardly and unacceptable and we will be working at pace to find the individuals responsible.”

Anyone with information or footage from around the park should report it online or by using the LiveChat service at www.gmp.police.uk quoting log 2503 of 21/12/2021.

You can also contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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