Teenager Sentenced to Three Years for Terrifying Chicken Shop Assault
A teenager who launched a violent armed attack on a chicken shop worker on Christmas Eve has been handed a three-year prison sentence. Marwan Khadir, aged 18, carried out the assault using a realistic imitation gun, threatening to shoot and kill the staff member during a dispute over a food order.
Christmas Eve Dispute Escalates into Armed Attack
The incident unfolded on December 24 last year when Khadir initially argued with the worker about the number of garlic sauces in his order and the absence of chips. After seemingly resolving the issue, Khadir returned to his flat only to discover his order remained incorrect.
Armed with a fake gun, Khadir stormed back into the shop demanding: 'I asked for three garlic and three mayo. So why are you giving me four burger sauce?' He then leaped onto the counter, cocked the weapon, grabbed the terrified worker's wrist and declared: 'I'm going to kill you now, are you mad?'
The terrifying assault lasted over two minutes, during which Khadir assaulted the victim multiple times while brandishing the imitation firearm.
Swift Police Investigation Leads to Arrest
The victim reported the assault on Christmas Day, triggering an intensive police investigation. Officers employed CCTV analysis, financial tracking, local resident checks and extensive phone work to identify Khadir as the perpetrator.
Armed police stormed Khadir's home on January 2, with dramatic body-worn footage capturing officers shouting 'armed police, come to your front door, hands above your head' before arresting him. Officers recovered the replica pistol hidden behind a bedside cabinet in his Penge residence, along with fake ammunition.
Strong Evidence Package Secures Conviction
The comprehensive evidence gathered by police included CCTV footage of the offence, the recovered weapon, and matching clothing seized from Khadir's home. This created what investigators described as an incredibly strong evidence package against the teenager.
Khadir, of Oakfield Road, Penge, pleaded guilty at Woolwich Crown Court on January 30 to:
- Possessing an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence
- Making threats to kill
- Assault occasioning actual bodily harm
He was sentenced to three years imprisonment at the same court on Tuesday.
Police Praise Victim's Courage
Detective Sergeant Amy Cross, who led the investigation, commended the victim's bravery: 'The strength he has shown since the attack has been remarkable. The courage he demonstrated in coming forward and reporting the assault was incredibly brave. He was then able to subsequently identify the perpetrator, a crucial moment in allowing us to move the investigation forward.'
She added: 'The tireless work by officers on this case over the Christmas and New Year period is further evidence that policing never stops, and their efforts ultimately led to a conviction. All our thoughts continue to remain with the victim of this terrifying ordeal, something no one should ever have to go through, let alone at their place of work.'
The case highlights how disputes over food orders can escalate into serious violent incidents, with the court sending a clear message about the consequences of such behavior through the substantial prison sentence.
