Appeal following stabbing in Birkenhead

UPDATE ON WEDNESDAY 14 AUGUST:

A 36-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder. He is in police custody to be questioned.

The victim is still in hospital.

Origianal appeal:

We are appealing for witnesses after a man was stabbed in Birkenhead yesterday evening, Monday 12 August.

At around 11.50pm officers received a report from North West Ambulance Service that a 36-year-old man had been stabbed on Chamberlain Street by three males who were wearing dark clothing and balaclavas. The suspects then made off on foot towards Pembroke Court and Old Chester Road.

The victim sustained a number of slash wounds and was taken to hospital where his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

An investigation is underway with CCTV and forensic enquiries are being carried out in the local area.

Detective Inspector Anna Hackett said: “We are in the early stages of the investigation to establish the circumstances of what has taken place, but believe this to be a targeted attack.

“I would appeal to anyone who was in the vicinity of Chamberlain Street and saw or heard anything to please contact us.

“Likewise I also urge people in the area to check your CCTV and dashcam footage to see if it has captured any footage, no matter how small, as any information may help with the investigation.”

Detective Inspector Hackett added: “Reducing knife crime is a priority all year round in Merseyside. We are committed to proactively using stop and search powers, carrying out open land searches, warrants and education, working alongside partners to remove weapons from the streets.

“While we are making positive progress, we understand the devastating consequences of carrying a knife and are relentless in our approach to targeting and pursuing criminals.

“The use of knives and any weapons is reckless and will not be tolerated, and can have tragic consequences, not only for the victim and their family but also for the offenders involved. 

“I would urge people to educate themselves and speak to their children and family members about the dangers of knife crime.

“There is no place for knives in our communities. I would urge anyone with information to get in touch or call Crimestoppers anonymously so we can act on community intelligence.”

Anyone with information is asked to DM @MerPolCC or @CrimestoppersUK on 0800 555 111 quoting reference 24000701819.