London police charge suspect with attempted murder over stabbing of Saudi national

A stabbing initially treated as an attempted robbery has become an attempted-murder case in central London. Metropolitan Police charged a 58-year-old man after a Saudi citizen was attacked in Mayfair.

The Saudi national, who is in his 40s, was stabbed in the early hours of Friday near Berkeley Square. The attack allegedly targeted his valuables, including a luxury watch. The assailant fled after using a knife, leaving the victim seriously injured.

Police upgraded the charge from assault with intent to rob to attempted murder. At a hearing before the Magistrates’ Court, the court denied the suspect bail and extended his pre-trial detention.

The entire case has been referred to the Crown Court, which has greater jurisdiction. If convicted, the suspect could face a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.