Teenager arrested after taxi driver sprayed in the eyes with unknown substance

'Cowardly' for group to attack an individual, says Detective Chief Inspector

George Street in High Wycombe (Google)

A teenager has been arrested after a taxi driver was sprayed with an unknown substance, causing serious injuries to his eyes.

The attack happened after the 43-year-old taxi driver followed three teenagers who had left his taxi in George Street in Buckinghamshire without paying.

Although they gave him the money, one of the them then sprayed an unknown substance into his eyes.

After the teenagers fled the scene, a 15-year-old boy from High Wycombe was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

“This is an unprovoked attack on a working man who was going about his evening shift as a taxi driver," Detective Chief Inspector Kelly Glister said.

"It is cowardly for a group to attack an individual, especially when they use a weapon.

“The victim is currently in hospital with serious injuries to his eyes. At this stage it is too early to establish what the substance is that was used to attack him.

“The offenders are three black males aged between about 16 and 18-years-old.

“I understand that this attack will cause great concern in the local community but I want to reassure the public that the Thames Valley Police is conducting a thorough investigation and is determined to find the offenders.”

The force said it was issuing "personal safety advice" to taxi companies following the incident.

Police are appealing for anyone with information about the attack to contact them on 101, or through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 anonymously.