Two men have appeared in court following a suspected double stabbing on a football pitch in Gateshead. Rakan Al Asafrah, 26, and Ammar Alrahman, 24, both non-UK nationals, are accused of attacking two males in Windmill Hill Park on St Cuthbert's Road in Bensham on Sunday evening.
Details of the Incident
The court heard that both victims suffered stab or slash wounds to their body or leg and were taken to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Gateshead for treatment. One of the victims required life-saving surgery, prosecutors said.
The alleged stabbing took place at around 9pm on Sunday, June 7. Prosecutor Chike Anieto stated: "This case is in relation to GBH with intent. The defendants appear before you and this matter must go to the crown court. The possession of a bladed article is linked, so must go to the crown court also."
Charges and Court Appearance
Al Asafrah, of Westgate Road, Newcastle, and Alrahman, of Osbert Place in Newton Aycliffe, were arrested earlier this week. They have been charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of a bladed article.
During the hearing at Newcastle Magistrates' Court, both men spoke through an Arabic interpreter and confirmed their names, dates of birth, and addresses. Due to the seriousness of the allegations, they were not asked to enter pleas.
Injuries Sustained
Mr Anieto explained that one victim suffered a 10cm slash to his leg, while the other was stabbed in the body. He added: "Following an investigation by police, the defendants were arrested. The defendants now appear before you in court today in relation to these matters."
Next Steps
Magistrates remanded both men in custody to next appear at Newcastle Crown Court on July 8.
