A man in his 30s has been hospitalised in serious condition after a violent assault broke out in Brighton city centre during the early hours of Saturday morning (5 July).

Police were called to Western Road at around 2:30am following reports of a fight between two groups of men. The altercation is believed to have started outside the Buddha Nail Studio and moved westbound, opposite McDonald’s, before one group fled in the direction of Churchill Square.

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Man in Hospital After Sustained Attack

Paramedics treated the victim at the scene before transporting him to hospital, where he remains under medical care. His condition is described as serious but stable.

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Suspect Search Underway – Operation Axle

An investigation, codenamed Operation Axle, is underway to determine the full circumstances of the altercation and identify those involved.

Detective Inspector Ed Neve, leading the case, said:
“We’re appealing to anyone who witnessed this serious incident or who may have relevant information or footage.
We are particularly keen to speak to a man seen wearing white clothing, captured in CCTV images released by the investigation team.”

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Police Appeal for Witnesses

Sussex Police are urging members of the public to come forward if they:

• Recognise the man in white shown in images released by the force

• Were in the area between 2am and 3am on Saturday, 5 July

• Have dashcam, CCTV, or phone footage of the incident or aftermath

Anyone with information is asked to:

• Visit www.sussex.police.uk

• Call 101, quoting Operation Axle

• Or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111