'HATE CRIME' ATTACK
Clapham stabbing: Two men knifed outside popular nightclub in ‘homophobic attack’ as urgent hunt for suspect begins
POLICE have launched an investigation after two men were stabbed outside a gay bar in South London.
The pair, in their 20s and 30s, were in Clapham High Street at around 10.15pm on Sunday when they were targeted.
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They were treated in hospital following the attack outside the Two Brewers but have since been discharged.
The Brewers describes itself as a "gay friendly cabaret bar and weekend dance club".
The Metropolitan Police are searching for the suspect behind the double stabbing which they are treating as a homophobic attack.
Julia Smith, 26, who lives near the Two Brewers, said: "We were about to go to sleep, I live right above.
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"I didn't see the stabbing just the aftermath. I just thought, what is going on.
"The road was barricaded off and there were three ambulances, a lot of police vehicles, then this morning everything was gone.
"I heard a police officer talking on his radio saying two people had been stabbed. It was obviously terrifying.
"The fact it's being labelled as a homophobic attack, this is not OK.
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"I've been in the bar many times, it's a brilliant venue, the security is great too.
"It's lively, brilliant, every single Sunday is especially busy, there's people having a great time.
"The fact that someone came over and did such a disgusting thing is really really alarming."
Drag performer Mary Mac, who was at the Two Brewers on Sunday, said on X, formerly Twitter: "It's shocking and disgusting that in 2023 this is becoming frighteningly more frequent.
"The team at The Two Brewers were incredible in dealing with this and keeping us inside the venue safe, glad the victims have been discharged and hope they are with loved ones now to help."
HORROR ATTACK
A spokesperson for the Two Brewers pub said security has been boosted in the wake of the stabbing.
They said: ";We are fully supporting the police in their investigation regarding this unprovoked attack and our thoughts are with the victims and their families.
"We would like to reassure the LGBTQIA+ community that the safety and security of our guests remains our number one priority, our CCTV has been handed over to the police and enhanced security measures have now been put in place."
Detective Inspector Gary Castle said: "We are acutely aware of the shock this attack will cause members of the LGBT+ community.
"And want to reassure people that an urgent investigation is ongoing to locate the person responsible."
Anyone with information can call police on 101 or tweet @MetCC and quote CAD 7198/13Aug.
To remain anonymous contact on 0800 555 111 or online.
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: "The incident in Clapham High Street on Sunday night was abhorrent.
"It's a huge relief the victims of this appalling attack are out of hospital, and my thoughts remain with them and their loved ones.
"I have always been clear that there is no place for hate in London. I stand with LGBTQI+ Londoners and will do all I can to end hate crime in the capital.
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"My team, along with the Met Police, are supporting and working closely with the LGBTQ+ venues forum and its members - who will be invited to attend an urgent meeting later this week.
"The investigation into this attack is continuing and if you have any information, please do not stay silent.
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