A TEENAGER with autism was left with a black eye and bloodied nose after being attacked by four thugs in Basildon town centre. 

The teenager, who asked to remain anonymous, was in the town centre close to Basildon bus station on Monday when he was targeted by four other teenagers. 

After being called names, he was then punched twice by one of the boys, leaving him with a swollen and bleeding nose.

It is believed some of the attackers may have known the victim.

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His mum has been left scared, but also furious about the attack on her son.

She said: “It is absolutely terrifying but also disgusting.

“They were approached by four boys, they shouted at him, calling him names.

“One of the boys then punched my son twice, and his nose is now swollen and shifted to the left.

“He is autistic, and while the wider world may not see this immediately, it does affect his ability to cope in stressful situations.

“He wants to appear to be coping after this, but I know he is so scared.”

She added: “I have heard him crying, it is absolutely devastating, and I am in fear for his safety.

“He is not an aggressive kid, so he didn’t fight back, but it is just heartbreaking that he is having to go through this.

“It makes no sense.”

The attack happened at around 8.30pm.

Police are aware of the incident and have confirmed an investigation is underway. 

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “We received a call shortly after 9.05pm on Monday reporting an assault at Basildon bus station.

“It was reported a teenage boy had been assaulted by another boy and left with a black eye and bleeding nose.”

Anyone who has any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to the incident, is asked to get in contact with Essex Police, quoting crime reference number 42/195697/22.

Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.