Maan Al Naif, owner of Cleopatra’s Kitchen, an Egyptian restaurant in Shirley, Solihull, expressed deep fear following a violent machete attack on two teenagers outside his establishment. The attack occurred around 9 pm on Saturday, February 7, and involved a group wielding machetes who targeted a 15-year-old and a 14-year-old, inflicting stab wounds to their faces and bodies. Thankfully, their injuries were not deemed life-threatening.
Opened in 2023 on Stratford Road, Cleopatra’s Kitchen has become a target amid increasing crime rates. Maan shared his frustration over the deteriorating safety in Shirley, contrasting it with the area’s past reputation. “Shirley used to be beautiful, and I loved working here, but now I’m scared,” he said. “Since last year, I’ve witnessed a rise in violence and antisocial behaviour. Customers are frightened to visit because of the constant presence of unruly youths.”
Maan detailed ongoing issues with young people showing disrespect and aggression, including swearing and making loud noises in his restaurant. Despite repeatedly reporting these incidents to the police, he feels little has been done, citing officers' remarks that underage offenders receive legal protection limiting police action.
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Expressing concern about lenient punishments, Maan emphasized the need for tougher laws to address crime among minors. “Kids today get away with too much, which fuels this wave of violence,” he stated. He even hinted at relocating his business if the situation remains unchanged.
The attack forced Cleopatra’s Kitchen to close temporarily, with Maan personally cleaning blood from the premises the following morning. Recounting the harrowing incident, he recalled seeing five youths in tracksuits and balaclavas attacking the teenagers before they fled the scene. He criticized the police response as slow and called for stronger weekend patrols to protect local businesses and residents.
West Midlands Police confirmed the arrest of a 14-year-old boy on suspicion of attempted murder, who remains in custody. The force assured the public that extra officers would patrol the area and encouraged witnesses to share any relevant information or footage for ongoing investigations.