Ilford hand hack terror: Witness describes seeing pool of blood

Images of the suspects have been released by police

The 27-year-old victim was beaten to the ground clutching a purple briefcase in Riverdene Road near the junction with Britannia Road, Ilford at about 10.25am on Tuesday, April 10.

The three men fled with the case after the attack, but discarded it shortly after with nothing missing.

A nearby resident, who wishes to remain anonymous, was alerted to the incident by the chilling screams of her daughter.

She said: “I was upstairs when it all happened and I only saw them running away.

“The police and ambulance were actually here for quite a while, they must have been treating him in the back.

“The blood was in a pool on the pavement that left a stain. It was a violent attack and he was seriously bleeding.

“My daughter thought she saw a stick of something, but she heard someone else use the word machete.”

The victim suffered extensive wounds to his arm, wrist and hand before the three men are believed to have fled in white vehicle.

Police cordened off the area, and a dog unit was seen to search local gardens.

Investigating officer Pc Paul Fuller, from Ilford robbery squad, said: “Doctors initially believed the victim may not fully recover all the function in his hand.

“Fortunately he’s been extremely lucky and is making great progress but it will be some months before he is back to normal.”

The suspects are described as Asian, between the ages of 25-30, with one reported to have a distinctive skinny face and stand about 5ft 8ins tall

A second man is thought to be 5ft 6ins in height, with short black hair and a brown jacket with a fur-type collar.

The third man is simply described as wearing a hooded top.

Police have released images of suspects they want to talk to as they appeal for witnesses to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 020 8345 2653 or via email to paul.r.fuller@met.pnn.police.uk. If you wish to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.