Two teenagers have been arrested after a couple of tourists were attacked and seriously injured in Brighton at the weekend.
One of the victims, who were visiting from Iceland, suffered broken bones in his face and both had been sprayed in the face with what Sussex Police said was a “noxious liquid”.
The force said: “Police investigating a serious assault on two men arrested two suspects after chasing them on foot through the centre of Brighton.
“Officers responded to a report that a group of men wearing black clothing had accosted the two men and had beaten and sprayed them in the face with an unknown substance in West Street at about 4.30am on Saturday (19 October).
“A description was given of the suspects and they were found near by but ran off when they saw officers.
“A chase ensued and two boys, both aged 17, from Lancing and Littlehampton, were detained on suspicion of committing grievous bodily harm and suspicion of possessing a weapon for discharge of a noxious liquid.
“The 17-year-old from Lancing was also arrested on suspicion of assault, going equipped for theft and possession of a class A drug.
“They were interviewed and released on police bail until 16 November.
“The two victims, who were from Iceland and were on a trip to the UK, were taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton.
“They both suffered bruising and swelling to the faces and one has facial fractures. They were treated in hospital and discharged.”
Detective Sergeant Sebastian Day said: “This was a nasty assault on two visitors to the city.
“We are keen to hear from any witnesses who saw the incident or from anyone who has information about it.
“Report online or ring 101 quoting serial 216 of 19/10.”