Bhupinder Singh Josan was left in a pool of blood as his attackers ran off

Dramatic images released as £5,000 put up to find gang who hacked at Ilford man’s hand

by Zjan Shirinian, News Editor Thursday, August 9, 2012
10:20 AM

A man beaten to the ground by a gang of three men who tried to slash his hand off has spoken of how the onslaught has changed his life, as police put up a reward to catch the attackers.

Bhupinder being brutally attacked in Riverdene Road

Bhupinder Singh Josan was on his way to work when he felt a blow to the right side of his face and blacked out – it was the start of an attack in broad daylight which would last up to five minutes.

Blows from fists, feet and metal poles in the hands of three men landed on the 27-year-old from Ilford before a large blade slashed into his arm and hand.

He came within millimetres of losing his right hand, and all for a suitcase he was clutching which the attackers dumped just feet away.

Scared

Bhupinder Singh Josan has lost strength and movement in his arm

Now detectives have put up a £5,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest and prosecution of those involved in the attack in Riverdene Road, Ilford.

“It has changed my life,” Mr Josan told the Recorder.

“Before, I never felt scared in this country. Now, there’s something in my mind. When I’m walking on the street and someone is running behind me, I think something will happen. I had so many plans, but now there are so many things I can’t do.”

The large blade – a knife or a machete – reached the bone in Mr Josan’s wrist.

He has had multiple operations and physiotherapy, but he cannot write properly, his index finger is bent and he cannot grip objects with his hand. He has been told that the movement he now has will not improve.

The attack happened at about 10.30am on Tuesday, April 10, as Mr Josan was carrying a purple suitcase containing mobile phone sim cards while on his way to his workplace.

A “crowd” of bystanders saw the attack unfold.

The three men were seen making their getaway in a white vehicle driven off towards Ilford Lane.

They are described as Asian, between the ages of 25 and 30. One is said to be about 5ft 8in with a distinctive skinny face.

A second man is thought to be 5ft 6ins with short black hair and a brown jacket with a fur-type collar. The third wore a hooded top.

Anyone who can help should contact 020 8345 1606, paul.r.fuller@met.pnn.police.uk or Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.