Drama erupted on Blackwood High Street when rival barber shops clashed in a wild brawl that left bystanders in shock! A courtroom has heard how punches flew and weapons like wrenches were allegedly brandished, involving barbers from Marmaris in Blackwood and Kurds in Newbridge. The chaos unfolded when Marmaris owner, Omed Pirot, intended to open a new shop, sparking bad blood with Kurds’ team. Onlookers, including children, witnessed the street turn into a battleground as two factions, reportedly including Pirot, Sardam Ebrahimi, and Shahab Husseini, clashed.
The fracas began when four cars drove from Newbridge to Blackwood, stopping near Absolutely Fabulous hairdressers, sparking a sizable street fight. Panic ensued inside the hair salon as fearful spectators watched men push up against its windows. Gwent Police officers, after receiving multiple emergency calls reporting potential stabbings and injuries, arrived on the scene only to discover the aftermath of the strife.
CCTV and social media footage have captured the melee alongside statements from witnesses. Among the chaos, scissors were scattered on the street, and Pirot was hospitalised with a fractured skull. The court heard various accounts, including Ebrahimi claiming he avoided violence by picking up a spanner solely to prevent its use. Husseini, heeding threats towards his friend, justified his involvement as self-defence.
The prosecution, however, argues no self-defence was at play. Prosecutor Nuhu Gobir describes the incident as unlawful violence, emphasising that the accused chose to engage rather than retreat. Scenes from the day allegedly show Ebrahimi throwing a punch, Husseini wielding a weapon threateningly, and Pirot scrapping before being attacked.
As the trial continues, Pirot, Ebrahimi, and Husseini all plead not guilty to charges of violent disorder and affray. Stay tuned for updates as this gripping court saga unfolds.