Seven men have been arrested following a brawl at a Birmingham bar which led to one man being seriously injured and another being robbed. The incident occurred at Fila Lounge, also known as Fila Habesha, on New Summer Street, shortly before 10.30pm on Thursday, August 6, according to West Midlands Police.
The venue, which operates as a hookah lounge and shisha bar, was the scene of what police described as 'serious disorder'. The fight resulted in at least one assault occasioning grievous bodily harm (GBH) and a robbery, police confirmed.
West Midlands Ambulance Service said it was called to the incident at 10.59am on Thursday, August 6. Two ambulances and an officer attended the scene. A man received trauma care for potentially serious injuries and was taken to hospital, while a second patient with less serious injuries was also conveyed to hospital for checks.
Arrests and Bail
Seven men, aged between 28 and 36, were arrested on suspicion of violence offences. Three were arrested on suspicion of assault occasioning GBH, three on suspicion of affray, and one on suspicion of violent disorder. All have been bailed until November with conditions, as enquiries continue, a police spokesperson said.
Detective Superintendent Lucy Kirwan from West Midlands Police said the venue was 'open and trading' at 10.25am on Thursday, August 6 when the 'serious disorder' took place. She described it as a 'serious crime' that 'significantly disrupted the premises' and was a 'severe public disturbance'. The GBH offence can carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
Licence Suspended
West Midlands Police applied for an expedited review of the venue's licence, citing 'serious concerns' for the promotion of the licensing objectives. The application was heard by Birmingham City Council's licensing sub-committee A on Monday, August 10.
Sergeant Mark Swallow presented the application on behalf of the police, while Filmon Abraham, the manager of Fila Lounge, spoke on behalf of the licence holder, Michael Teckle. The hearing was held in private due to the ongoing police investigation, and the committee viewed body-worn footage from officers.
Following the hearing, committee chair Cllr Sam Forsyth (Birmingham Independents Group, Quinton) announced that the venue's licence would be suspended for 28 days, pending a full review. In addition, Michael Teckle was removed as the designated premises supervisor.
Police Appeal
West Midlands Police said: "Thankfully, no one suffered life-changing injuries." They are appealing for anyone with information or footage to contact them via 101, quoting crime reference 20/352971/26. The investigation continues, and the full licence review will determine the future of the premises.
