Burglars cause life-changing injury

A man was subjected to “extreme” violence and left traumatised with life-changing injuries during a burglary at his home.Police have released an image of the injuries sustained by the victim in Wimbledon, south west London, and said they have arrested two suspects but are still trying to trace a third suspect.

Officers were called at approximately 10pm on Monday to reports of a burglary in progress at an address in Kings Road, the Metropolitan Police said.

It is understood the 55-year-old victim opened the front door to three men who entered his home. They had their faces concealed and one of the men violently assaulted him.

A 50-year-old woman was then threatened by the remaining two men who attempted to tape her down to a chair.

Two residents who had been upstairs at the time were able to call 999 for help.

Police said officers were on the scene within minutes and arrested two suspects in their late twenties.

A third suspect, also believed to be in his late twenties, made off on foot in the direction of Wimbledon town centre.

Police are still looking for him.

Officers are also keen to speak to anyone who saw a silver Volkswagen two-door cabriolet-style car which is believed to have been used by the suspects.

The injured man is in a south London hospital receiving treatment for multiple facial injuries and bruising to his body and limbs.

He is undergoing surgery to the eye and police said his condition is described as life-changing.

Detective Inspector Dan O’Sullivan, of Merton burglary squad, said: “I’m appealing to anyone who was in the area between 9pm and 11pm and may have heard or seen the events that night. We are also seeking information regarding a silver car the suspects may have used.

“The level of violence used was extreme and has left a victim seriously injured and traumatised. The fast response to the 999 call ensured that two suspects were apprehended and the victim could receive immediate first aid.

“I must stress that this appears to be an isolated incident, and such cases are thankfully rare. However, this serious attack is now subject of a meticulous inquiry whilst we work to support individuals affected by the events and the local community.

“Officers are currently conducting high-visibility patrols and speaking to residents to answer their concerns.”

It is understood that a number of personal items were stolen from the address, some of which have been recovered, as they were discarded by the suspects.

Both men arrested are in custody pending further investigation.

Police said there is no description of the third suspect.

Anyone with information is urged to call the incident room on 020 8649 3159 or to call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.