Police recorded 19 acid or corrosive substance attacks in Bedfordshire over the past three years, according to data obtained through Freedom of Information requests.
The figures, compiled by Legal Expert, show incidents increased in 2025, with nine recorded cases compared to five the previous year.
Rising incidents
The data includes a range of offences involving corrosive substances, including cases of administering poison with intent to injure and offences involving attempts to cause serious harm.
In 2024, one incident was linked to an allegation of forced or compulsory labour, while another was associated with a report of non-fatal strangulation.
Of the 19 recorded incidents in Bedfordshire between 2023 and 2025, six were closed without a suspect being identified.
Across the same period, four cases resulted in a suspect being charged or summoned to court.
Eight investigations were discontinued after victims withdrew their support for police action.
Regional picture
Figures from neighbouring forces show similar patterns.
Cambridgeshire Constabulary recorded 35 incidents over the same period, with nine cases closed without a suspect identified.
Hertfordshire Constabulary recorded 50 incidents, of which 26 were unsolved, and 7 resulted in a charge or summons.
Elsewhere, Northamptonshire Police recorded 167 incidents, while Essex Police reported 428, with more than half of those cases closed without a suspect being found.
Bedfordshire Police was approached for comment, but did not respond.
Support for victims
Ellie Lamey, a Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority specialist at Legal Expert, said: “These figures highlight a deeply concerning lack of accountability for what is a barbaric and life-altering crime.
“When perpetrators of such horrific attacks go unidentified, victims are robbed of the justice and closure they so rightfully deserve.
“Corrosive substance attacks leave victims with devastating physical and psychological scars that can take a lifetime to heal.
“It is absolutely vital that survivors understand they are not alone and that they can still seek specialist support and financial compensation to help rebuild their lives, even if their attacker has completely evaded the courts.”
