Harman Singh Kapoor, the Sikh activist and owner of the non-halal Indian restaurant Rangrez in Hammersmith, west London, was arrested by the Met police on Friday, 14 March 2026. The dramatic arrest unfolded during a tense standoff outside his eatery.
Video clips flooding social media show Kapoor being led away in handcuffs. Officers detained him on suspicion of carrying a prohibited bladed weapon — his kirpan, the ceremonial Sikh dagger.
Tensions Boil Over After Protest Rally
Just hours before his arrest, Kapoor urged supporters to rally outside Rangrez on Fulham Palace Road. The call followed a rowdy crowd of over 100 people blocking the restaurant entrance Thursday night for hours.
In videos posted prior to his detention, Kapoor claimed he was ready to defend his family and confessed he’d lost faith in police protection.
Supporters Cry Foul, Critics Point to Threats
The arrest sparked fierce debate. Fans slammed what they called “uneven policing,” accusing officers of ignoring the blockade the night before and targeting Kapoor instead.
But critics flagged Kapoor’s recorded threats to use force as crucial context for his arrest.
Controversy Over Non-Halal Signage Sparks Months of Abuse
Kapoor has been embroiled in unrest since he put up signs at Rangrez declaring it “proudly non-halal,” serving jhatka meat as per Sikh custom. The provocative move triggered protests, online abuse, vandalism, and threats to his family.
In February 2026, Kapoor announced he would shutter the restaurant after 16 years, only to reverse his decision following a wave of public support. He also claims his car was shot at and vandalised amid his vocal stance against Khalistani extremism.
This is not Kapoor’s first brush with the law. In May 2025, he was arrested after an altercation where he allegedly used racially charged language, defending himself against attackers.
The Met has yet to release an official comment on Friday’s arrest. The drama outside Rangrez continues to draw crowds and intense social media attention.
