Clapham stabbing: ‘Homophobic attack’ outside Two Brewers bar leaves two in hospital

Two men were stabbed in Clapham High Street outside a nightclub on Sunday night (August 13).

The incident happened at about 10.15pm when two men were approached by a man who attacked them with a knife before running away, said police.

Both men, aged in their 20s and 30s, were taken to hospital and have since been discharged.

Police say enquiries are ongoing to locate and arrest the suspect.

While enquiries into the circumstances are ongoing, at this stage the incident is being treated by detectives as a homophobic attack.

Detective Inspector Gary Castle, of the Central South Command Unit, said: “We are acutely aware of the shock this attack will cause members of the LGBT+ community and want to reassure people that an urgent investigation is ongoing to locate the person responsible.

“We recently announced the reinstatement of LGBT+ community liaison officers for each of our 12 BCUs in London to support and advise on investigations where homophobia is a motive, and to ensure the community has a dedicated point of contact to address any concerns they may have.”

Florence Eshalomi, Labour MP for Vauxhall, said: "Having spoken to people in the area this afternoon, I know how alarming this shocking attack has been to the LGBTQ+ community in Clapham.

"My thoughts are with the victims, who I hope will be supported to make a full recovery."

A spokesperson for the Two Brewers said: "We are fully supporting the police in their investigation regarding this unprovoked attack and our thoughts are with the victims and their families.

"We would like to reassure the LGBTQIA+ community that the safety and security of our guests remains our number one priority, our CCTV has been handed over to the police and enhanced security measures have now been put in place."

The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said: “The incident in Clapham High Street on Sunday night was abhorrent. It's a huge relief the victims of this appalling attack are out of hospital, and my thoughts remain with them and their loved ones.

“I have always been clear that there is no place for hate in London. I stand with LGBTQI+ Londoners and will do all I can to end hate crime in the capital. My team, along with the Met Police, are supporting and working closely with the LGBTQ+ Venues Forum and its members who will be invited to attend an urgent meeting later this week.

“The investigation into this attack is continuing and if you have any information, please do not stay silent – contact 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 or tweet @MetCC and quote CAD 7198/13Aug. You can also provide information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.