Man arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after double-stabbing at hotel for Afghan refugees

A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a double-stabbing today (9 July) at a hotel used to house refugees from Afghanistan.

It is understood one man is believed to have been knifed at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Long Ditton near Surbiton, Surrey and another man was attacked at a BMW garage next door to it.

Both victims were rushed to hospital after the incident, which occurred around 1.45pm.

One person told the Evening Standard: “The man was on a mad one inside the hotel. It’s a hotel full of Afghan refugees.”

Surrey Police said the man is still in custody and it is investigating the incident.

A spokesman for the force said: “While we appreciate that this may be extremely concerning, we would like to reassure you that we believe this was an isolated incident.

“An investigation is under way to establish the circumstances of the incident and remains ongoing.

“The man who was arrested is currently in custody.”

Detectives are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has any information, to contact them.

Mark Knight, 41, who lives in the area, said he witnessed someone in handcuffs coming out of the hotel who was wearing a shirt and a blazer.

He also said he saw another man leave the building who had a bandage around his head and his bicep, who was put in an ambulance.

Mr Knight said he noticed there was “drama” at the hotel at around 1pm, and saw the road “jam-packed” with police vehicles.

Fraser Howie, 36, who lives near the hotel, said he witnessed commotion from his upstairs window.

He said: “I only saw it after the police arrived.

“(I saw) lots of police cars. There was one car sitting in the middle of the road which was obviously where all the commotion was around.”

After the incident, a large police cordon was put in place along blocking vehicles and pedestrians from accessing the entrance of the garage hotel, and forensic officers were seen working at the scene.

Commenting on the stabbing, a Home Office spokesperson said the Government department takes the ”welfare and safety” of those in its care ”incredibly seriously”.

They added: “We are aware of an incident in Surrey at a hotel housing Afghan refugees.

“We are working closely with Surrey Police and partners on the ground to support the investigation and those affected by today’s events.”

Additional reporting by Press Association.