Detectives investigating after a noxious substance was sprayed inside a Hackney nightclub have released a CCTV image of named man wanted for questioning in connection with the incident.

Arthur Collins, 25, of Hertfordshire is wanted for questioning by police. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is urged to contact with investigators. He should not be approached by members of the public. If seen the public are advised to call 999 immediately.

Two other men are also wanted for questioning in connection with this incident. CCTV images of the two further males are currently being reviewed by investigators

Officers were called to the nightclub in Sidworth Street, Dalston, at approximately 01:10hrs on Monday, 17 April, after members of the public complained of a noxious substance.

London Fire Brigade and London Ambulance Service also attended.

Two men aged 24 (Victim 1) and 29 (Victim 2) have been transferred to a specialist burns hospital in Essex where they remain in a serious but stable condition.

A total of 12 people attended hospital suffering burns. Ten people were taken by ambulance and two people presented themselves at an east London hospital.

The others were treated for various injuries.

As a result of the incident a total of 20 people have now been identified as suffering various burns.

Officers believe a dispute between two groups of people developed inside the venue, resulting in a noxious substance being sprayed by a male suspect directly at Victims 1 and 2. Other people inside the venue suffered the effects of the substance.

The substance is yet to be identified, but it is believed to have been acidic.

There has been no arrests at this early stage; enquiries continue. There is nothing to suggest that this is gang-related.

Detective Inspector Lee McCullough from Hackney CID leads the investigation. He said: “We now have 20 people suffering from the effects of an acidic substance being sprayed in a confined space in a busy nightclub. All have burn related injuries. The noxious substance used has not yet been confirmed but samples retrieved from the scene have been sent for analysis. If you were there and saw anyone involved inside or leaving the nightclub, please get in touch.”

Anyone with information that may assist police should call detectives from Hackney CID via 101 or via Twitter @MetCC. To remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.