Friday April 5, 2024
London (HOL) – A 31-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following the stabbing of a young Somali man in what authorities believe to be a racially motivated attack at the Pear Tree Inn & Country Hotel in Hindlip, near Worcester. The incident, which occurred around noon on Tuesday, is under investigation by the West Midlands Counter Terrorism Policing unit.
The victim, a 25-year-old Somali national, was reportedly asked about his country of origin before being stabbed in the chest and hand by a white male assailant. He is currently recovering in a hospital and is in stable condition.
Initially detained on charges of causing grievous bodily harm, the suspect's arrest was upgraded to attempted murder. The police have seized electronic devices from the suspect to probe potential extremist connections.
Forensic teams are examining the scene at the hotel, which has been cordoned off during the ongoing investigation. The hotel, which previously housed migrants, had been closed for refurbishment for three months and was set to reopen to the public.
Ramlal Chander, the 63-year-old owner of the hotel, said the victim had formerly resided there as an asylum seeker and had returned to visit a worker. Chander described the attack as unprovoked and possibly racially motivated, noting that the hotel had accommodated asylum seekers peacefully for three years before renovation began.
The Assistant Chief Constable of West Mercia Police has reassured the public that there is no broader risk. A cordon is in place, and additional police officers have been deployed to conduct inquiries and provide reassurance. Residents are encouraged to approach the safer neighbourhood team officers with any concerns.