Summary
- Convenience store owner stabbed after card dispute.
- Community rallies for support
- Man arrested on suspicion of stabbing
A wave of support has poured in for a beloved South Norwood convenience store owner, known locally as Shanka, who sustained stab injuries following an altercation in his shop, Portland Wines, on Wednesday evening (July 16).
According to local reports and social media posts, the incident was sparked when a "drunk man" had his card declined, leading to a violent confrontation. Shanka was taken to hospital with stab wounds but is now recovering and has already returned to the store today.
Police confirmed that a man in his 30s was arrested at the scene on suspicion of wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm and remains in custody. Two other men sustained minor injuries and were treated at the scene.
The news sent shockwaves through the local community, with dozens of residents taking to social media to express their sympathy, outrage, and support for Shanka and his family.
"I used that shop for over 21 years and never had a problem. The shopkeeper helped my son when he was having trouble with kids. It’s a wonderful family-run shop," wrote one user.
Shanka, who runs two stores in the area, is widely known and respected for his friendly nature and community spirit.
"There’s a real sense of community in that shop. I’ve made friends there I otherwise never would have. It’s something we should protect," said another.
Another local described it as “my old local shop,” calling the incident “awful.”
Another contributor has started a GoFundMe for ‘Shanka and Family’
A spokesperson for Metropolitan Police said: “Police were called at 19:25hrs on Wednesday, 16 July to reports of a stabbing and assault on Portland Road, SE25.
“Officers attended and found two men, aged 39 and 33, with minor injuries and a 48-year-old man with injuries consistent with a stab wound.
“He was taken to hospital by paramedics and his condition is not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing. The two other men were treated on scene.
“A man in his 30s was arrested shortly after, by officers on patrol, on suspicion of wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm. He remains in custody.
“Enquiries are ongoing.”