Two teenagers arrested over student slashing in London

A Spaniard studying in London has been left with "potentially life-changing injuries"

Two teenagers have been arrested over an attack on a Spanish student who was slashed with a knife in an attempted mugging.

The boys, aged 15 and 17, were held on suspicion of grievous bodily harm (GBH) this morning and are being questioned at a police station in north London, Scotland Yard said.

During the attack in Willesden Green, north west London, in the early hours of yesterday, the 30-year-old Spaniard was cut across the neck and left with potentially life-changing injuries.

The student, who is studying English in London, was apparently slashed after he refused to hand over his rucksack to two would-be thieves.

Detective Constable Fiona Davidson said: "This was a shockingly violent attack on a man who was simply attempting to prevent the robbery of his bag.

"I would urge anyone who saw what happened, or who has information about those responsible, to make contact with police."

Anyone with information can call police on 020 8733 3709 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.