Cries of ‘what the f*** lad’ as footage of horror machete assault goes viral
A teenager has been arrested following a suspected machete attack at Chavasse Park in Liverpool city centre that was captured on video and widely shared online
A video still of a teenager appearing to pull out a machete as part of youth brawl
A teenager has been arrested ain connection with a machete assault that was shockingly caught on video and went viral. Merseyside Police were alerted to an incident where a 17-year-old boy was reportedly attacked by a gang of youths on the steps of Chavasse Park in Liverpool city centre around 7.15pm on Monday, April 6.
The victim was treated for a minor slash wound to his arm and swelling to his head following the attack, according to the police. A spokesperson confirmed that a 16-year-old boy was arrested the next day on suspicion of affray. He’s since been released on police bail with conditions not to enter the city centre and surrounding areas while the investigation is ongoing.
Detective Chief Inspector Stephen Ball, who is heading up the investigation, said: “This is believed to be a targeted attack and the victim was left very distressed from the attack. He was treated in hospital and has since been discharged, reports the Liverpool Echo.
“The incident would also have been upsetting and alarming for people who saw it. We are aware of a video circulating on social media, and we ask people not to share the video while the investigation is ongoing.
“Although an arrest has been made, our enquiries continue into this incident. We urge anyone who witnessed the incident or captured the incident on their mobile phone to please get in touch.”
The disturbing footage circulated extensively online depicts a group of youngsters dressed in dark-coloured hooded tops launching kicks and punches before one seemingly brandished a machete and brought it down towards the victim’s arm. Cries of “oh my god” and “what the f***, lad” can be heard as the gang of youths fled the scene.
Det Ch Ins Ball added: “Tackling knife crime remains a priority for Merseyside Police and we will take robust action against anyone found to be in possession of a knife.
“The use of knives and any weapons is reckless and will not be tolerated, and can have devastating consequences, not only for the victim and their family but also for the offenders involved.
“I would urge people to educate themselves and speak to their children and family members about the dangers of knife crime. We continue to seek out those involved in knife crime, enticing young and vulnerable people to carry weapons or involved in gangs.”
Following Monday’s incident and a second knife-related police response the following night police officers have been granted additional powers following a series of incidents in Liverpool’s city centre. Merseyside Police has introduced a section 60 order today, Thursday, giving officers enhanced stop and search until 1pm on Friday.
Additional officers have been dispatched to the area to maintain a visible presence and deter crime or serious violence, according to the force. The powers granted to the officers apply to both males and females of any ethnicity aged between 13 and 35. Officers also have the authority to remove and confiscate face coverings.
Inspector David Grant stated: “This order is not intended to disrupt anyone going about their lawful business but is intended to deter crime or serious violence. The aim, as ever, is to keep the public safe. I hope that the presence of our officers in the city centre is reassuring, and I would ask anyone with concerns to speak to those officers.”
Merseyside Police cordoned off a section of the Albert Dock on Tuesday following reports that a 15 year old boy had been assaulted, sustaining a stab wound to his arm. An eyewitness reported seeing the victim “covered in blood” following the assault.
Liverpool’s city centre is currently experiencing one of its busiest periods of the year, with the Grand National at Aintree drawing tens of thousands of additional visitors to Merseyside.
A police spokesperson added: “Anyone with information is asked to contact Merseyside Police social media desk via X @MerPolCC or on Facebook ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ with reference 26000271101.” The force also stated that individuals can provide information anonymously through Crimestoppers.
