Essa Suleiman, 45, has appeared in court charged with the attempted murders of three people during two knife attacks in London. The suspect is accused of stabbing two Jewish men in Golders Green on Wednesday, following an earlier attack on another man in south London over a personal dispute.
Court Appearance
Suleiman appeared at Westminster Magistrates Court in central London, where he spoke only to confirm his name and address. Wearing a grey tracksuit, he stood in the dock as the charges were read. The prosecutor, Emma Harraway, outlined the details of the attacks.
The Attacks
According to prosecutors, Suleiman first attacked Ishmail Hussein at his home in Southwark. He then travelled to Golders Green in north-west London, arriving shortly after 11am, where he attacked two Jewish men. The victims were identified as Shloime Rand, 34, and Norman Shine, 76. Both were clearly identifiable as Orthodox Jews by their clothing.
A third member of the public, who was not named in court, witnessed the attack on Shine and attempted to disarm Suleiman. Further charges are being considered regarding Suleiman's actions towards that individual.
Arrest and Medical Episode
Police officers arrested Suleiman after using a stun gun. While on the ground, he suffered a medical episode that required hospital treatment. He was later deemed fit to appear in court.
Next Steps
Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring remanded Suleiman in custody and transferred the case to the Old Bailey. The next hearing is scheduled for 15 May.
