Police are looking for witnesses

Police are appealing for witnesses after a woman was left temporarily blinded following a robbery in Mitcham on March 4.

The 21-year-old had left the Croydon Tramlink at Mitcham at approximately 4pm, after spending the afternoon shopping in Wimbledon.

As she walked up Tramway Path, she was approached by two women, one of whom was holding what appeared to be a water bottle with a sports cap on it.

One of the suspects then sprayed the contents of the bottle into her face, causing the victim to fall to her knees.

The woman then experienced a burning sensation on her eyes and face and as she was struggling to cope the two suspects robber her, taking her purse containing £15 cash, bank cards and driving licence. The suspects left the scene via the tram platform.

The victim’s eyes were burnt and her face was swollen from the unknown chemical and she had lost her vision, forcing her to return regularly for specialist treatment. The examination has shown that the top layers of both eyes have been burnt off and the victim’s eyesight is improving. Tests are being carried out to establish what the liquid was.

The officer in the case Detective Constable Simon Callcott, said: “This young lady has been subjected to an appalling and completely unprovoked attack which may result in her sight being permanently impaired.

“This type of attack is extremely rare and I would urge anyone who has any information to contact police.

“I know that there are many people who may have witnessed the attack or who may have seen the suspects on the tram.

“It is vital that any person who saw the attack contacts me to assist in the investigation.”

Two suspects have been identified, arrested and bailed to return pending further enquiries. Police would now appeal to any witnesses who saw the attack and would be able to identify the suspects again to come forward.

The suspects are described as follows:

The first was a light-skinned black female with long wavy hair wearing a woollen hat and dark clothing including a jacket with a fur lined hood or collar.

The second was a light-skinned black female with long hair and a fringe. She was wearing a short black leather jacket and green tracksuit trousers with three white stripes down each side. She was also wearing a black scarf which she used to wrap around her head before the attack.

Anyone with information is urged to contact police in the strictest confidence on 020 8649 4044; alternatively if you wish to remain anonymous please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.