Islington Tribune - by PAUL KEILTHY Published: 23 May 2008
Accused Ali Abdulrahman (right), and Mohammed Munye were jailed for their attack on bus passengers
Two jailed for attack on ‘gay’ passengers
‘Horrific’ beating of party-goers in fancy dress
TWO teenagers have been sent to prison following an unprovoked attack on men they believed to be gay. Ali Abdulrahman, 18, and Mohammed Munye, 19, assaulted the two men on board a N38 bus close to the Angel in December last year.
The victims, aged 29 and 31, were wearing commando-style fancy-dress costumes, having attended a Christmas party. They were jeered at and asked if they were gay.
When one of the men, who is not gay, said he was and joked with the group, they reacted violently and punched and kicked him and his friend to the floor before stamping on them. The 29-year-old victim sustained a broken cheekbone and substantial bruising to his face and body and the second victim sustained cuts and bruises.
Munye also attempted to burn part of one of the victim’s outfits. Other passengers on the bus were so scared they moved away as they believed the group would turn on them. The attackers got off the bus in Rosebery Avenue.
The accused, who had pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing, were sentenced at Wood Green Crown Court last Thursday.
Abdulrahman, a student from Baldwins Gardens, Camden, was sentenced to 10 months’ imprisonment for grievous bodily harm and common assault.
Munye, unemployed of Harringay, was sentenced to 15 months’ imprisonment for grievous bodily harm and common assault.
Trainee Detective Constable Emma Whitehead said: “This was a horrific and sustained attack on the victims. I would like to thank the many witnesses who came forward to provide statements and assistance with the investigation. “This sentence sends a strong message that both the Metropolitan Police Service and the public will not tolerate violent behaviour towards anyone, regardless of sexuality.”