Mugger knifes innocent shopper

A man out shopping in his lunch break was stabbed repeatedly by a mugger in a frenzied attack.

The victim, a 29-year-old architect, was critically ill this afternoon with severe chest and stomach injuries.

His family were at his bedside as his condition deteriorated.

The man, who has not been named, was shopping in Bethnal Green near where he works. He was looking for items to furnish his new flat.

Police said he was robbed of cash and subject to a "particularly violent" attack. Detectives are looking for a dark-skinned man seen leaving the scene in Mansford Street at the junction with Claredale Street shortly before 2pm yesterday.

The attacker was said to have long curly hair swept back from his face, possibly with a hair band. He also had patterns shaved into the hair on the side of his head. It is believed he may have escaped along Mansford Street, heading towards Hackney Road.

Police are appealing for witnesses. To help jog the memories of people in the area, they described the victim as white, about 6ft tall and clean-shaven with short dark hair. He was wearing a light coloured shirt, three-quarter length trousers and trainers.

Anyone with information should call the incident room on 020 7275 4585 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Police fear the attacker could strike again. Detective Inspector Ian Corner said: "This was a horrendous unprovoked attack on a professional young man."

The attack comes as figures reveal violent crime in London has increased by 37 per cent this year, with muggings one of the fastest growing crimes.