Knife Attack at Nightclub Leaves Two Men Injured
Fight Erupts at Festival Leisure Park
Chaos broke out in the early hours of Saturday, 2 October, at Unit 7 nightclub in Festival Leisure Park. Wagner Silva, 20, was part of a group of around 15 when tensions exploded into a violent fight. After a moment’s hesitation, Silva pulled a large silver knife concealed in his trousers and charged at two men, sparking a brutal attack.
Two Men Stabbed in Frightening Scuffle
The victims tried to flee, but Silva caught them. One man suffered a deep stab wound to his leg, while the other was slashed on both arm and leg. Miraculously, neither injury was life-threatening or permanent. The entire violent episode lasted just 90 seconds.
Swift Arrest and Heavy Sentencing
Police wasted no time tracking down Silva. He was arrested the next day at a nearby Travelodge and charged with two counts of GBH with intent, possession of a bladed article, and possession of cannabis. Silva pleaded guilty at Basildon Crown Court in November.
On 17 February, he was sentenced to three years and six months for each GBH charge and 12 months for carrying the knife. All sentences will run concurrently, with no additional punishment for the cannabis charge.
Police Warn of Deadly Risks
“This incident could have ended up being much worse for Silva’s victims and indeed himself. It happened in front of hundreds of people who were outside a nightclub,” said PC Will Belsham of Basildon CID.
“Thanks to CCTV from the park’s control room, officers quickly identified Silva, leaving him no choice but to admit guilt. Carrying a concealed knife shows clear intent to commit crime. This could have turned much darker for everyone involved.”
