A prominent West Bromwich pub is at risk of having its licence permanently revoked following a violent altercation where its door staff allegedly used an offensive weapon and excessive force against customers.
Police Report Details Violent Late-Night Incident
West Midlands Police were called to the Prince of Wales on High Street at around 12.30am on November 16, 2025, after receiving reports that three people were bleeding from the head. The force stated the disturbance began inside the venue before spilling out onto the street.
Officers logged the incident as a section 18 wounding with intent, a section 20 assault, and a section 47 assault causing actual bodily harm (ABH). Their investigation also includes the possession of an offensive weapon. Police expressed serious concern that the pub's own security personnel were involved in the assault.
Weapon Stored Behind Bar and Licensing Failures
According to evidence presented to Sandwell Council’s licensing committee, the offensive weapon used had been kept behind the bar. Bar staff were aware of its presence and handed it to the bouncers during the incident.
The committee's minutes from a private hearing on November 19 stated that door staff had "physically assaulted" customers, throwing punches and employing "excessive force." In response, the committee temporarily suspended the pub's licence ahead of a full review.
Police reported that the licence holder, Rajinder Singh, who has run the pub since 2005, "did nothing" and merely watched the event unfold. Mr. Singh told authorities he knew nothing about his security or bar staff, paid them cash in hand, and was unaware of their immigration status. He also stated he did not intervene due to being diabetic and claimed this was the first serious incident of its kind during his tenure.
Final Decision Looms for Community Pub
The licensing committee, which holds the power to alter or revoke the licence, will meet on December 11, 2025, to decide whether to make the suspension permanent. During the initial hearing, members concluded Mr. Singh was "naive" and failed to grasp the severity of the incident or his responsibilities as the designated supervisor.
In defence, West Bromwich BID offered support for Mr. Singh, describing the Prince of Wales as a "responsible pub" that has consistently promoted licensing objectives and is a "big part of the West Bromwich community."
The outcome of next week's hearing will determine the future of this High Street establishment.
