A shisha lounge in Kingsbury, North London, has been allowed to keep its operating licence following a fatal stabbing outside the venue on May 18, 2025. The incident, which claimed the life of

26-year-old Ali Faris Muhammad, prompted the Metropolitan Police to request a review of the venue’s licence, citing “serious failings” in its management during the attack. However, Brent Council’s Alcohol and Entertainment Licensing Sub-Committee decided against revoking the licence of Tigerbay, operated by Carlton Lounge, opting instead to impose stricter conditions and reduced operating hours.

The stabbing occurred in the early hours of May 18, when police were called to reports of an attack at approximately 3:31 AM. Muhammad was rushed to Northwick Park Hospital with critical injuries but was pronounced dead shortly after. The tragedy led to an initial review on May 23, where the police pushed for the suspension of the venue’s licence. However, the council deemed suspension “not appropriate” and, during a full review on June 13, introduced new conditions to enhance safety, including earlier closing times.

The decision has sparked mixed reactions in the community. Some residents argue that the venue’s reduced hours and new safety measures are insufficient to address the underlying issues that led to the incident. Others believe the council’s decision strikes a balance between supporting local businesses and addressing public safety concerns. The police have emphasized the need for venues to implement robust security protocols, such as trained door staff and CCTV monitoring, to prevent future incidents.

This incident is part of a broader conversation about knife crime in London, with North London seeing several high-profile cases in recent months. Community organizations are calling for increased investment in youth programs and violence prevention initiatives to tackle the root causes of such crimes. The council’s decision to allow the shisha lounge to continue operating, albeit under stricter regulations, reflects the complex balance between economic vitality and public safety in urban areas. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the stabbing, and no arrests have been reported in connection with Muhammad’s death as of June 20, 2025. Photo by Pearson Scott Foresman, Wikimedia commons.