SHOCKING footage shows a group of teenagers attacking a restaurant owner in a village where locals have been forced to hire private security.
Shocked locals in Barnham, West Sussexbranded their city lawless after another violent video went viral.
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The latest footage shows an unprovoked attack on the family-run Indian restaurant Passage to India in the picturesque village.
Restaurant owner Muhammed 'Mo' Islam, 64, was attacked by a group of youths who tried to force their way inside before smashing a window.
The father-of-four says he was attacked after trying to explain to a group of young people that restaurant toilets were only for paying customers.
He was allegedly punched and kicked several times in the head and shoulders.
After the attack on Sunday, May 19, locals sent cards and flowers to the popular local restaurant with messages of support.
“It's really moving,” Islam said.
“I've lived here for 36 years and we've had the restaurant for 35 years.
“We've never experienced anything like this before.”
Incidents of violence and shoplifting in the village are so common that local businesses have banded together to hire private security.
Mr Islam added: “The first girl came in and said she was using the toilet and there was nothing anyone could do about it.
“She said to herself, 'I'm sixteen and you can't touch me.'
“When she came back later with a group, I tried to explain to them that they are not public toilets.
“Then I got hit.”
Mr Islam and staff claimed they had managed to get the group out of the restaurant and held the door shut while they tried to smash the windows.
Neighbors who heard the noise filmed the shocking incident.
He added: “They tried to break all the windows. I got quite a few punches and kicks.”
I've lived here for 36 years and nothing like this has ever happened before.”
Restaurant owner Muhammed 'Mo' Islam
After the attack, Islam said the community came together to offer support.
“We have been part of this community for 36 years.
'All my children went to school schools and played football And cricket for local teams.
“I am humbled by the response, how the locals have taken it and how they have helped us.
'I feel much better now thanks to the response from the local people I serve.
“They have supported me, it's really fantastic,” said Islam.
A card sent to the restaurant reads: “The community has your back.”
“Life is about good days and bad days, but it's really moving,” the business owner said.
During a public meeting in the village hall with more than 200 local residents, they heard how they feel held hostage by wild youth.
The meeting was prompted by new shocking video of staff being attacked at Barnham train station over Easter holidays.
Sussex Police were then given a dispersal order movie of the attack went viral.
BRUTAL ATTACK
A local shopkeeper, who asked not to be named for fear of reprisals, said the village is plagued by wild youths who exploit the south coast train network.
The community came together as Lord Keir Starmer promised to tackle anti-social behaviour.
A week after the attack, the Labor leader made tackling anti-social behavior one of his six pledges at a meeting in nearby Lancing.
Islam said: “The politicians must take this seriously.
“I am aware of what is going on in Barnham and I am hopeful, but this is a serious issue.
“It has now reached a limit in Barnham.
“We are seeing a lot more police activity now, but if the politicians treat this as a serious matter then there is a way to find a solution.”
Sussex Police said they have launched an investigation following the attack on Sunday, May 19, and are appealing for witnesses.
A 14 year old girl and a 15 year old girl from Yapton, West Sussex were arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and released on bail pending further investigation.
Chief Inspector Will Keating-Jones, District Commander for Chichester and Arun, said: “This is an unacceptable and unprovoked attack.
“Those who go to work should not tolerate this behavior and we are taking this report very seriously.
“An investigation is underway and we will hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
“We are aware of a message on social media show the incident. I would urge users not to speculate or share it at this time and to report any evidence to Sussex Police.”
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