POLICE have launched an investigation after a racial attack on a group of Chinese students wearing medical face masks.

Officers were called to Vincent’s Walk, Southampton, at 8pm on March 17 after a group of people were abusive and assaulted a group of four Chinese students who were wearing medical face masks.

It was reported that the incident was racially aggravated and linked to the coronavirus outbreak.

In videos taken by witnesses, a large group of people are seen appearing to shout and spit at the victims, and one person is seen throwing a large piece of wood towards them.

Daily Echo:

The victims, three men and one woman, were all aged in their early 20s and they did not suffer any last physical injuries.

The incident happened outside the student accommodation on Vincent’s Walk, where a group of people were seen outside the main entrance.

Police are now carrying out enquiries to identify the people who targeted them.

A spokesperson from Hampshire Police said that any crime carried out through prejudice or hate is “unacceptable”.

They said: “It was reported a group of people had assaulted and been abusive towards a group of four Chinese people wearing medical face masks.

“It is reported the incident was racially aggravated and linked to the coronavirus.

“Enquiries are ongoing today to identify those who targeted them.

“Anyone who has information to help our investigation into this incident should call 101 quoting 44200101024.

“Any crime perpetuated through ignorance, prejudice or hate is unacceptable.

“We are working with our partners and the local Chinese communities and we would encourage everyone to report incidents to us either by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency.

“Reports can also be made online on the Hampshire Constabulary website, through True Vision or using the growing network of Third Party Reporting Centres for hate crime.”