Shopkeeper injured in 'horrible' attack after challenging suspected thieves
A SHOPKEEPER suffered head and facial injuries after he challenged a group of youths who allegedly shoplifted at his Fawley outlet and was attacked by them.
Two 15-year-old boys from Hythe have been arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm over the incident, which caused local residents to react with fury online.
Hampshire police said the victim, a 67-year-old man, was assaulted during an altercation between two men and a group of youths in the vicinity of School Lane and Church Lane at around 8.45pm on Tuesday.
The A&T understands the victim, who is known as Norman, was the father of Mike Sangha, the joint-shopkeeper at Fawley Express, located at The Square.
Hampshire Police said the alleged assault followed an earlier incident, between 8.30pm and 8.40pm, where a group of youths, suspected of shoplifting, were challenged at the newsagents.
The victim had to be treated at Southampton General Hospital although it is understood he was at home recovering yesterday (Wednesday).
The A&T contacted the shop and spoke to Mike, who said he had been advised by police not to comment on the incident, although he said it was “horrible”.
Online more than 1,000 local residents shared an appeal by Mike on Facebook to catch the culprits and left messages of goodwill for his father.
Many were left fuming at the incident. One commenter said: “So sorry to hear this. It’s so sad that people don’t respect their elders!”
Another added: “This makes me so angry... how could someone do that to him? He’s such a lovely man.”
A third poster to Mike said: “Hope your dad's okay. Don’t know how anyone could do this... your dad is such a lovely, kind man.”
Hampshire Constabulary has launched a witness appeal and would like to speak to anyone in The Square or the School Lane and Church Lane areas at the time of the incidents.
Last night the two 15-year-old boys remained in custody. No charges had been laid against either.
Those with information should call Hampshire Constabulary on 101 quoting 44190305063.
