Malaysian student Ashraf Haziq says he "feels sorry" for the people who mugged him during riots in Hackney earlier this week.

The 20-year-old said he was saddened by the attack on Monday when a group stole his bicycle, leaving him with a broken jaw.

"I feel sorry for them. But it was really sad because amongst them there were children," he said.

"He was in primary school I think. It was quite shocking to me."

I feel sorry for them. But it was really sad because amongst them there were children. It was quite shocking to me.
Ashraf Haziq

Following the theft of his bike, he was helped to his feet by an apparent 'Good Samaritan' only to have his backpack rifled by a surrounding crowd. Video of the incident showing his phone and game console being taken, has been viewed by millions on YouTube and provoked widespread outrage. David Cameron described the incident as "disgusting".

A man in his twenties was arrested on Thursday afternoon in connection with the attack on Ashraf.

'I will stay in London'

However, the injured student said despite his parents' concerns, he was determined to stay in London.

"Britain is great. I will encourage people to come to London to study.

"I plan to finish my study here. And then I will return home in two years' time."

He described the efforts of genuine well-wishers to help him after the attack and thanked the British people for their support and donations.

"It was very nice of you to help me. I really appreciate it".

But confessing that the attention had been overwhelming, he said "I'm just a normal person, I would like to go back to a normal life."