UPDATED: Two people have been arrested in connection with an incident in Sandown during the early hours of this morning (Wednesday) which has resulted in a 22-year-old woman suffering life changing burns to her face.
A corrosive liquid, believed to be acid, is understood to have been used in the isolated attack which occurred next to Royal China in Sandown High Street, where Police have remained throughout the day.
Investigations have led to the arrest of a 48-year-old woman on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. A 24-year-old female has also been arrested, on suspicion of assisting an offender. Both remain in a police custody at Newport Police Station.
The young victim, just 22, has been transferred to a specialist burns unit on the mainland, believed to be in Salisbury. Police have said she has suffered life changing injuries with serious burns to her face.
Officers from Hampshire Constabulary have remained on guard at the scene of the attack behind the popular chinese restaurant throughout today, raising concerns in the local community. Forensic officers have been called in from the mainland to examine in the scene, indicating the serious nature of the incident.
The identity of the victim, who is believed to be local, has not been released.
UPDATE THURSDAY: It is understood the victim of the horrific attack is of Chinese ethnicity.
Local residents have told Island Echo that food was taken from the Chinese restaurant, although it is currently unclear how the removal of food stuffs is related to the incident. It is understood that the victim may be closely connected to the 48-year-old suspect.
A 24-year-old woman arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender has been bailed pending further enquiries.
UPDATE THURSDAY PM: Police have this afternoon charged the 48-year-old owner of Royal China, Ms Sau Lin-Hin from Mulberry Way, Ryde, with causing grievous bodily harm with intent. She will appear in court on Friday (6th June).
The identification of the victim is yet to be released, however it is understood the victim is closely connected with Ms Lin-Hin.
Readers have expressed their disgust at the news, which has been reported nationally. Many have said they will boycott the restaurant following the horrific attack.
UPDATE FRIDAY: Sau Lin-Sin has today been remanded in custody until 30th June after appearing at the Isle of Wight Magistrates Court this morning.
The victim of Wednesday’s acid attack is understood to have lost one eye and could potentially lose her sight completely.
Island Echo will have the full story later today, bringing you the latest developments in the ongoing case.
