The victim of an alleged attack in a West Sussex village reportedly at the center of a growing crime wave has expressed his shock at the “non-stop” attack.
Two girls, aged 14 and 15, were arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and released on bail. The arrests came after what police described as an “unprovoked attack” at The Passage to India restaurant on The Square, Barham, at 10pm on Sunday, May 19.
Muhammed Islam, 64, said he had tried to talk to a group of youths who were not customers at the restaurant but who insisted on using the toilets before he was allegedly attacked.
He said he was punched and kicked in the head and shoulders during the alleged attack. He said almost £300 worth of damage was caused to the eatery after a window was smashed.
This was said by Mr Islam, who helps his son run the family business Express.co.uk Still shocked, he added: “It was terrible. It was non-stop.
“I have lived in this village for 36 years. I never expected something like this to happen again. Lately we have been confronted with this kind of behavior. It used to be wonderfully quiet here.”
Neighbors heard the commotion and filmed what happened. Footage showed a group of young people shouting and screaming outside the restaurant.
The alleged attack comes after locals held a public meeting in the village following an attack on staff at Barnham train station over the Easter holidays.
A local shopkeeper, who declined to be named for fear of reprisals, was quoted as saying MailOnline as mentioned, the village was plagued by wild youth who exploited the railway network.
Mr Islam called on politicians to do more to stop anti-social behaviour, adding that he was impressed by how the village had rallied to support him.
He said: “I am truly humbled by the local support from guests, neighbors and supporters. Everyone has come together and given cards and flowers.”
He added: “I hope everything will be fine, things will get back to normal and everyone can run their businesses safely. The community will be strong together and care for each other. There should be no room for this kind of practice. behavior in society, there is no respect.”
Sussex Police want to speak to others believed to have been involved in the alleged attack on Mr Islam.
The force's Ch Insp Will Keating-Jones said: “This is an unacceptable and unprovoked attack. Those who go to work should not tolerate this behavior and we take this report very seriously.
“An investigation is underway and we will hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
“We are aware of a post on social media showing the incident. I would urge users not to speculate or share it at this time and to report any evidence to Sussex Police.”
Witnesses or anyone who has information or images is asked to report this to the police online or call 101, quoting serial number 1327 of 19/05.