No verdict reached in mob trial

Apr 23 2008 By Ross McCarthy

A JURY has failed to reach verdicts on six defendants accused of taking part in mob violence at a religious festival in Birmingham where one man almost lost his life.

Avtar Singh Klaar, Avtar Thandi and a defendant who cannot be identified had all denied attempting to murder Ravinder Singh Powar, the former president of the Guru Nanak Gurdwara Temple in High Street, Smethwick and an alternative charge of wounding with intent.

They, along with, Sakdeep Kandola, Sukhwinder Chatha and Gurbax Hayre had also pleaded not guilty to a charge of violent disorder.

Another man Amandeep Singh was cleared of all three charges and walked free from court along with Amarprit Khera who was found not guilty of firearms charges.

Birmingham Crown Court was told that violence had erupted in Handsworth Park on April 22 last year between two warring factions.

Mark Wall, QC for the prosecution, said the Crown would be making a decision as to whether there would be a retrial.

The jury had deliberated for four-and-a-half days following a two month trial.