A London restaurant was thrown into chaos last night when three would-be attackers stormed in and confronted a young couple at dinner.
Diners at Tasha’s cafe in Battersea, southwest London, had been enjoying dinner service before the assailants rushed in – before later fleeing the scene.
The incident occurred at approximately 8:25pm on Monday evening at the popular eatery near Battersea Power Station.
Staff members said the men – one of which was said to be armed – targeted a specific couple, aged between 22 and 25, who were seated at a table enjoying their meal.
Police later confirmed that three men were arrested “for possession of an offensive weapon and affray” and remain in custody.
Staff members said the men – one of which was said to be armed – targeted a specific couple
BATTERSEA POWER STATION
The storming sparked panic among diners, with objects and food thrown into the air as customers rushed to safety.
Restaurant workers later spoke to the young couple, who claimed they did not recognise their assailants, when questioned.
The pair reportedly told staff they had no idea who the attackers could have been.
The knife-wielding trio fled the scene in a getaway car which had been waiting outside the cafe – which police said they “were able to stop a short distance away”.
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Diners at the popular eatery near Battersea Power Station were forced endure an evening of chaos
PA
The cafe immediately closed its doors following the confrontation.
No injuries were reported in the incident, with both the targeted couple leaving the scene unharmed.
One witness described the incident on social media, saying: “Horrible scenes in Battersea Power Station this evening… A gang of 20 people walked into Tashas to attack someone.”
The witness added: “One of the waitresses ran into Wagamamas next door, where my girlfriend and I were eating. Praying for those affected.”
The Met said three people had been arrested following the incident
PA
Tashas Group said: “Four unidentified individuals entered the restaurant and confronted a table of guests causing a commotion.
“There were no weapons, except a pocket-knife, contrary to what has been reported in the media.
“Our team responded swiftly and decisively, immediately alerting the police who later apprehended the suspects by identifying their car registration on the CCTV footage from the restaurant.
“We remain committed to providing a welcoming and safe space for our guests and staff and will continue to work proactively to uphold these standards.”
While a Metropolitan Police statement said: “Police were called to reports of a fight between four individuals at a venue in Battersea Power Station at around 8.30pm on Monday, February 3.
“After the suspects fled the scene by car, officers were able to stop the vehicle a short distance away. There were no reported injuries.
“Two men aged 27 and one man aged 28 were arrested for possession of an offensive weapon and affray. They remain in custody. Enquiries continue.”