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Acid attacks in London sound like something from a horror film. Over the past twenty years, these murders have been all over the news, startling people and causing concern about municipal safety. Unlike other violent crimes, acid attacks are highly cruel since they create permanent physical and psychological scars.
But frequency of occurrence is another question. Are conditions improving or worsening? How can they be stopped?
What Exactly Is an Acid Attack?
Whether sulphuric acid, hydrochloric acid, or ammonia, someone launches an acid attack by throwing or pouring a caustic material on another person with the intention of harming them. These compounds can cause blindness or extreme burn-through. Along with the physical harm, victims sometimes suffer from severe emotional trauma spanning a lifetime.
Who Are the Victims and Attackers?
Although anyone can experience an acid attack, trends have emerged over years. Sometimes employed in some circumstances of gang violence, an acid is a frightening and portable instrument. Usually out of wrath, attacks sometimes occur during conflicts at home or between individuals. Although many have claimed that both men and women have been singled out, young men tend to be the most often victims, particularly in cases involving gangs.
History of These Attacks
Even if they have a long history, acid attacks became more well-known in London in the early 2010s. Reports of these crimes sharply increased between 2015 and 2018, which enraged people and led to stricter laws. With more acid assaults than any other UK city, London was among the most targeted cities globally at one point.
The any-place character of those attacks from acids is one of their terrifying features. They can happen in homes, on busy streets, or even in restaurants. Easy to obtain, acid can be carried in a water bottle instead of a knife or firearm.
The good news is that over the last few years, the numbers have begun to drop. Laws that are stricter, better police work, and efforts to raise public awareness have all helped. Attacks still happen, though, so the problem hasn’t gone away totally.
Where Are Acid Attacks Most Common in London?
Although more have been recorded in some areas, acid attacks can occur anywhere. East London, which comprises Newham and Tower Hamlets among other regions, has seen more crimes than anywhere else in the city. One significant reason acid has been used as a weapon is gang activity has made certain areas hazardous.
Still, it’s crucial to keep in mind that acid assaults affect not only gangs. Seen all throughout the city in situations of domestic violence, thievery, and personal conflicts is their presence.
How Bad Is the Problem?
London had about 450 acid attacks in one year in 2017, during the worst of times for the issue. That is day after day of assaults! Since then, however, stricter regulations and more knowledge about them have helped to lower the recorded cases count. The most current figures show a significant decline, however acid attacks remain a concern.
In terms of perspective, knife crime is still a far more major issue in London. But since they are so forceful and leave permanent wounds, acid attacks are especially frightening. Apart from immediate suffering, sufferers can require years of medical treatment, operations, and emotional assistance to completely recover.
What’s Being Done to Stop Acid Attacks?
The UK government made the rules stricter after the rise in acid attacks. These are some important steps that have been taken:
Tougher Laws on Acid Sales
It is now harder for people to buy strong acids because of new rules. Before selling corrosive materials, stores have to check IDs, and bringing acid in public without a good reason is illegal. The ease of getting dangerous drugs has been slowed down by these steps.
Stronger Sentencing for Attackers
More severe sentences are now being given in courts for acid attacks. Attackers have been given life sentences in some cases, which shows that the government is serious about these crimes.
Police Crackdowns
To stop attacks, the police have been going after gangs and people who are known to carry acid as a weapon. Stop-and-search laws have also helped cut down on crimes.
Public Awareness Campaigns
Educating people is one of the best ways to stop acid attacks. People are more aware of how dangerous it is to keep and use acid as a weapon thanks to campaigns. Also, they’ve told people to report anything that seems fishy and get help if they feel threatened.
What Can You Do to Stay Safe?
It’s still a good idea to be cautious even if there is a minimal possibility of acid attack. Here are several simple reminders:
- People who are in an area known for violent crime should be careful and avoid getting into fights.
- If you have an attack, water is the best way to wash off the acid.
- Take quick action if you or someone you know is being attacked. Always get medical help right away after rinsing the hurt area with the product.
- If you see someone with acid or acting strangely, you should call the police.
Is London Becoming Safer?
The good news is that compared to a few years ago, London acid attacks are less frequent. More people knowing about it, greater police action, and tougher laws have helped to lower the numbers. As long as acid is readily available, the risk is not fully gone.
It’s not enough to just catch acid attackers; we also need to stop them from happening in the first place. London can keep cutting down on these horrible crimes by continuing to teach people, help victims, and enforce strict rules.
