Three Teenagers Face Charges Following Violent Shirley Machete Attack
Three teenagers have been formally charged in connection with a brutal machete attack in Shirley that resulted in a boy sustaining life-changing injuries. The incident, which occurred on February 7 outside Cleopatra's Kitchen on Stratford Road, has led to a total of five individuals facing criminal charges as police intensify their investigation.
Details of the Attack and Injuries
On the evening of February 7, three boys were reportedly attacked with machetes outside the restaurant. Following the assault, one of the victims collapsed outside the adjacent Boss Mart. Emergency services responded swiftly, transporting two boys, aged 14 and 15, to the hospital. Tragically, one of the boys suffered injuries described as life-changing, highlighting the severity of the violence.
Charges and Court Appearances
Three teenagers—two aged 14 and one aged 15—have each been charged with two counts of wounding and one count of violent disorder. They are scheduled to appear before Birmingham Magistrates Court on April 21. In addition, Naveed Khalily, 43, and Sadia Khan, 43, have both been charged with perverting the course of justice and will face magistrates in May.
A 16-year-old boy was previously charged with attempted murder, assault, and possession of a bladed article. He is currently remanded in custody. Three other teenagers remain on police bail while enquiries continue, indicating that the investigation is ongoing and may lead to further actions.
Police Investigation and Community Impact
Detective Inspector Stewart Lewis from Solihull CID emphasized the progress in the case, stating, “This is a significant step forward in our investigation, which is continuing.” He expressed gratitude for public support, noting that community information has been invaluable. Police are still appealing for witnesses or anyone with dashcam or mobile phone footage to come forward.
Eyewitness Maan Al Naif, the owner of Cleopatra's Kitchen, described the harrowing scene to BirminghamLive. “I thought it was just a fight because stuff was being broken outside and I went out to move away,” he said. “Then I saw they were chopping them with machetes and locked the door. I didn't want anyone else to get hurt.” Al Naif added that the attack has left him fearful, remarking, “Shirley used to be beautiful, and I loved working here, but now I'm scared.”
How to Assist the Investigation
West Midlands Police urge anyone with information to contact them on 101, quoting crime number 20/140093/26. The continued appeal underscores the importance of community cooperation in resolving this violent incident and ensuring justice for the victims.
