Arrests over suspected stabbing in Shripney Road, Bognor

The victim was discovered by police in in Shripney Road, near the War Memorial Hospital in Bognor, shortly before 9.30pm on Wednesday. He had a serious knife injury to the chest.

He was taken to Southampton General Hospital where he remains in a stable condition.

Two men have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a late night attack in Bognor

A large number of police units remained stationed in the area over the next 24 hours with passers-by saying officers "appeared to be searching" nearby roads.

An underpass was cordoned off with a police tape in the aftermath of the incident.

Today, police confirmed they had arrested a 26-year-old man from Felpham and a 30-year-old man from Aldwick on suspicion of attempted murder, in connection with the stabbing.

It is understood the victim and suspects are known to each other, and the detained pair remain in custody for questioning.

Two men have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a late night attack in Bognor

District commander, chief inspector Jon Carter, said enquiries into the incident were continuing and "the matter is being investigated as a priority".

"We understand that incidents such as these may cause concern among members of the public," he said.

"Please be assured that violence will absolutely not be tolerated and we are committed to catching those who engage in criminality and protecting the local community."

Two men have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a late night attack in Bognor

Sussex Police are now appealing for further information on this incident, and urging any witnesses of the late night attack to come forward.

Detective inspector Pauline Lane said: "Our investigation is progressing at pace as we conduct extensive enquiries into this matter.

"We are treating this as an isolated incident and there is nothing at this stage to suggest there is a threat to the wider community.

Two men have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a late night attack in Bognor

"I’d like to thank the public for their patience and understanding while our investigation is ongoing and continue to appeal to anyone who saw anything suspicious to come forwards.

"We’re urging anyone with any information, or who witnessed anything suspicious in the area, to report it online or call 101, quoting Operation Seaspray."

Anyone wishing to report any information to police relating to this incident can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or report it online. www.crimestoppers-uk.org.