Two men have been arrested following a suspected racially motivated attack at a petrol station in Gloucester. The incident occurred on the forecourt of the Esso petrol station on Cheltenham Road, where two men approached another individual, directed racial slurs at him, assaulted him, and attempted to provoke him.
Afterwards, the two men reportedly approached a second individual, damaged his vehicle by punching the windscreen, and subjected him to racial slurs. Gloucestershire Constabulary is appealing for witnesses to come forward.
The two assailants were unknown to the victims and fled the scene before the arrival of law enforcement. The incident, treated as a hate crime, took place at approximately 11.40pm on Saturday, October 21.
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Following investigations, two 46-year-old men from Gloucester were apprehended on suspicion of assault, making threats to kill, and criminal damage. They have been released on bail with conditions while the investigation continues.
Police are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward and provide their account to the authorities.
County Hate Crime Co-ordinator PC Steph Lawrence emphasized the commitment to eradicating hate crimes, ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals in the diverse county of Gloucestershire.
For those affected by the incident, support is available through the local victim care team in Gloucestershire or by contacting them online.