Four men have been arrested after a family enjoying a picnic in a park was racially abused and attacked by a group of men carrying weapons – with footage of the distressing attack shared online.
West Midlands Police launched an investigation into the incident, just before 7pm on Sunday, in which two people sustained head and facial injuries after being targeted at Doebank Park in Pheasey, Walsall.
In the clip, a group approaches the picnickers, whose group includes women and children, with one man apparently punched in the face.
Still pictures on Twitter show one man with facial lacerations purportedly inflicted during the fracas.
Four men aged 38, 39, 55 and 58 were subsequently arrested on suspicion of assault and remain in custody for questioning.
Chief Superintendent Phil Dolby, from Walsall LPA, said: “This is a very active investigation and these arrests are a significant step forward in our enquiries.
“The victims were part of a family enjoying a picnic and we understand the concern this has caused within the community.
“We’re working very closely with the family and we’re grateful for all the support we’ve received from the wider community to enable us to fully focus on progressing the investigation.
“It’s important everyone stays calm so our officers can continue this focus, without other distractions, and look to bring those involved in this appalling incident to justice.”
Police have stepped up patrols in the area and is keen to hear from anyone with mobile phone footage.
The force is also asked people not to share film of the attack online in case it jeopardises their investigation.
Anyone with information is being invited to get in touch via Live Chat on the West Midlands Police website, or by contacting them on 101, quoting crime investigation number 20/466399/23.
