A Kebab shop worker has been sentenced to 18 months in prison for assaulting a man with a knife sharpener in what was described as a “homophobic attack.” Zafir Cetin, 49, an employee at the Golden Grill in Aberdare, carried out the assault by striking the victim, Elgin Ramadan, over the head with the sharpener. The incident occurred following a dispute where Mr. Ramadan was taunted about his sexual orientation, leading to an escalation that resulted in the violent attack.
The victim sustained two wounds to his head as a result of the assault and required stitches. During a sentencing hearing at Cardiff Crown Court, it was revealed that Mr. Ramadan had been subject to bullying, threats, and harassment for some time leading up to the attack. The prosecution stated that Mr. Ramadan believed the assault was motivated by the defendant’s alleged homophobia, emphasizing the impact the incident had on his physical and emotional well-being.
According to Prosecutor Clare Wilks, Mr. Ramadan had been repeatedly targeted and intimidated by Cetin and others, including gestures and verbal abuse directed at him whenever he passed by the kebab shop. In a victim personal statement read in court, Mr. Ramadan detailed the extent of the trauma he experienced, including physical pain, anxiety, and sleep disturbances following the assault. The attack had a profound effect on his life, leading him to seek refuge elsewhere to cope with the aftermath.
In her mitigation, Lowri Wynn Morgan mentioned that Cetin maintained his innocence regarding the charges but accepted the court’s verdict. She highlighted that there were ongoing tensions in the community that may have contributed to the altercation. Despite Cetin’s denial, Judge Simon Mills denounced the severity of the actions, pointing out the potential for serious injury or even death resulting from head injuries inflicted with a weapon.
Ultimately, Zafir Cetin was found guilty of section 18 wounding and possession of an offensive weapon following a trial. He was, however, acquitted of a charge of affray. The judge sentenced him to 18 months in prison, with the requirement to serve half the sentence in custody before being released on licence to serve the remaining term. The sentencing reflected the gravity of the offence and aimed to address the impact on the victim and the broader implications of such acts of violence.
The case serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing and condemning acts of violence and discrimination, particularly those motivated by hate. It underscores the need for communities to stand against intolerance and support individuals who may be vulnerable to such attacks. The legal proceedings and sentencing send a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated and will be met with firm consequences to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals.