Portsmouth cleaver attack horror: Man admits vicious assault at Afghan resettlement hotel
Sher Wali, 49, from Long Ditton, has pleaded guilty to two counts of grievous bodily harm with intent. The chilling attack happened near the reception of the Crowne Plaza Hotel, which was serving as an Afghan Citizen Resettlement Centre at the time. Wali appeared at Guildford Crown Court on Monday (12 February) and is set to be sentenced on 19 April after being remanded in custody.
Brutal meat cleaver assault at Long Ditton hotel
The terrifying incident occurred around 2pm on Sunday, 9 July 2023. Four men were sitting near the hotel reception when Wali approached carrying a black plastic bag, claiming to have a mobile phone he wanted them to check. Suddenly, he plunged his hand inside and pulled out a meat cleaver, launching a violent attack on two of the men.
Police arrested attacker shortly after savage assault
Officers quickly found Wali in his room and arrested him on suspicion of attempted murder. During questioning, he claimed that he and his family had been harassed and tormented by the victims and other guests. Wali insisted he hadn’t planned to kill anyone and only intended to scare them.
Weapon bought days before attack but no premeditation admitted
Investigations uncovered that Wali had purchased the meat cleaver just two or three days prior to the assault. However, he denies that the dreadful attack was premeditated.
Wali remains in custody as the court awaits his sentencing in April.
