Sikh man charged over stabbings at community event in London

Gurpreet Singh, 25, appeared at Uxbridge Magistrates’ Court, London, charged with in connection with the stabbing of two people during a community event in Southall, west London, the Metropolitan Police said in a statement on August 17 as detectives from West Area CID conduct an urgent investigation. 

Singh, reportedly an Indian national, is accused of a series of offences: one count of attempted grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent, two counts of GBH with intent, one count of affray, one count of threats with a bladed article, and two counts of possession of a bladed article. He has been remanded in custody to appear at Isleworth Crown Court in London on September 14. 

The incident is said to have occurred during an Indian Independence Day related community event in Southall on the night of August 15, with some videos circulating on social media showing a clash involving some pro-Khalistani extremists.

Met Police Superintendent Sean Lynch, responsible for neighbourhood policing in Ealing, west London, said: "I recognise the enormous concern this incident will have caused, both in Southall and in the Sikh communities around London and further afield, in what was an otherwise largely peaceful and celebratory event.

“Our urgent investigation continues. We are aware of footage circulating on social media, with people also commenting on what they think happened. We would urge people to avoid echoing or adding to speculation. Fortunately, none of those injured were seriously hurt and there were no fatalities."

A second aged man in his 20s was also arrested at the scene but has since been released on police bail pending further enquiries. The police said a female officer involved in detaining one of those arrested sustained a small cut to her hand, but did not require hospital treatment.

A Section 35 Dispersal Order has since been lifted.