A family member has expressed their frustration at the police for describing the injuries of a stab victim as 'non life-threatening'. 

As previously reported by The Gazette, a 17-year-old boy was attacked with a knife in broaddaylight in Brighton Hill on Saturday.

The teenager was rushed to hospital and forced to undergo five hours of critical surgery to save his internal organs.

The youngster also suffered internal bleeding. 

Two teenagers, aged 15 and 16, were arrested by police and have been released on bail.

The family member, who requested to remain anonymous, said: "I am fed up of the police saying his injuries were not life-threatening.

"His injuries have been life-threatening. He had surgery Saturday evening into the early hours of Sunday. It took five hours of surgery.

"He's had four organs repaired - his liver, spleen, small and large bowel. He is now left with two smaller scars and a big one from under the breast bone down to the pelvis."

The family member said he remains in hospital this afternoon. 

It comes after today a spokesman for Hampshire Constabulary said two boys had been released, in connecton with the incident. 

A spokesman said: "Both boys have been released on conditional bail while police investigations continue."

A 15-year-old boy and a 16-year-old boy, both from Basingstoke, were arrested on Saturday, June 20, on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

The 17-year-old who had been stabbed was rushed to hospital, with injuries that were considered non life-threatening. 

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 and quote 44200223842.