Two young boys have sustained “significant” burns after suffering a chemical attack in Aberdeen.
The incident happened on Granitehill Road near the Coral Bookmakers at about 8pm last night.
Both boys, aged 12, were taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and are being treated with serious burns.
One of the boy’s sisters posted on social media that her brother had suffered bad burns to his face.
She added: “This is the sort of thing you hear about on the news. I never expected it to have happened to [my brother].
“He is just miserable and is very sore but he will be okay.”
Police are now searching for two youths thought to be responsible for the attack.
Officers say there are believed to have been wearing dark clothing and gloves at the time of the incident.
This morning, fire crews were seen in the area washing down the pavement.
They were also in attendance at the offices of Hill & Tawse joinery nearby, but the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has confirmed that was a false alarm.
A Police Scotland spokesman said: “Police Scotland is appealing for information after two boys were assaulted in the Northfield area of Aberdeen.
“The boys had a substance thrown at them which caused burn-type injuries.
“The area where the incident happened has been cordoned off to allow the scene to be examined.”
Detective Inspector Allen Shaw, who is leading the investigation, said: “This has been a shocking and despicable incident against two young boys who have obviously been left upset and shaken by what has happened to them. They have been left with significant injuries and were taken to the Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital for treatment.
“Extensive inquiries are ongoing to trace those responsible and we are working with our colleagues in the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service as part of our investigation. There will be a police presence in the area for some time, however the scene where this incident happened has been examined and I can assure the public it is safe.
“I would appeal for anyone with information about the incident, whether you were in the area at the time or know anything about it, to please get in touch. You can contact Police Scotland on 101, via the Police Scotland website or via the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 if you would prefer to remain anonymous
“I can assure the local community that all resources available to us will be used to trace those responsible. It won’t be tolerated.”
