The man behind the horrific chemical attack in London is an ex-asylum seeker, Government sources have told GB News.

It is understood that he failed twice in previous applications to be granted asylum in the UK, before being ultimately successful.

This comes as the Metropolitan Police released a new image of Abdul Shokoor Ezedi, who is currently on the run.

Ezedi allegedly attacked a woman and her two children with a corrosive substance in Clapham, south London.

A new CCTV image released of Abdul Shokoor Ezedi

Ezedi, believed to be from the Newcastle area, is alleged to have thrown an alkaline substance at the mother and her two daughters in a “targeted” attack which saw a total of 11 people taken to hospital.

Following the attack, a huge manhunt was launched which included several forces, with the manhunt still ongoing.

Police said in his attempt to drive away from the scene, the attacker crashed into a stationary vehicle and made off on foot.

They originally reported that he has injuries to the right side of his face and have now released a second image of the suspect, with the injuries clearly visible.

Superintendent Gabriel Cameron said: “We are now releasing an image of the last known sighting of Abdul Shokoor Ezedi, which was on Caledonian Road, N1 at 20:48hrs on Thursday, January 31.

“The image is taken from the Tesco store, where Ezedi is believed to have purchased a bottle of water. He left the shop and turned right.

“The image shows Ezedi with what appears to be significant injuries to the right side of his face. This makes him distinctive.

"If you see Ezedi, call 999 immediately. He should NOT be approached."