Three men have been jailed for their role in a violent brawl involving two rival barber shops in Portslade. The altercation, which escalated into a weapons fight, led to seven men standing trial, but four were acquitted by a jury.
Sentencing at Lewes Crown Court
Today at Lewes Crown Court, the three convicted men were handed prison sentences for violent disorder and possession of offensive weapons:
- Ayob Mohammed, 21, of Western Road, Brighton, was sentenced to 18 months in prison. He was found guilty of violent disorder and possession of an offensive weapon after using a metal torch in the fight.
- Sardam Qadir, 31, of Blacksail Walk, Oldham, received a two-year sentence after being found guilty of violent disorder and possession of an offensive weapon. He wielded a wooden plank during the incident.
- Sarbast Ibrahimi, 25, of Somerhill Avenue, Hove, was sentenced to two years and nine months in prison. He was also found guilty of violent disorder and possession of an offensive weapon, having used a wooden plank in the attack.
Weapons Used in the Attack
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) emphasized the violent nature of the attack, with each defendant using weapons during the clash. The court heard how tensions between the rival barber shops escalated into a brutal confrontation, leading to the deployment of metal torches and wooden planks as weapons.
Trial and Acquittals
A total of seven individuals stood trial for their involvement in the disorder, but four were acquitted by the jury due to insufficient evidence linking them to active participation in the fight.
Police and Prosecution Response
Following the sentencing, a Sussex Police spokesperson stated:
“This was a premeditated and reckless act of violence that endangered not just those involved but also innocent bystanders. The use of weapons in a public setting is completely unacceptable, and we welcome the court’s decision to impose custodial sentences on those responsible.”
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) also warned against the dangers of gang-related disputes escalating into public violence, reaffirming their commitment to bringing violent offenders to justice.
Appeal for Community Support
Authorities have urged any witnesses or those with information about similar incidents to report them.
- Contact Sussex Police: Call 101
- Report anonymously via Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111
The case has served as a stark warning about the consequences of violent disorder, particularly when weapons are involved in public altercations.
