Outcry and Protests Emerge After South London Beauty Supply Owner Chokes Black Woman
A shocking incident involving a Black woman being choked by the owner of a beauty supply store in South London has sparked outrage and protests. Sohail Sindho, the owner of Peckham Hair and Cosmetics, claims to have lost everything after the video of the incident went viral. However, activists and demonstrators are demanding accountability from the entrepreneur.
According to Sindho, he has suffered significant financial consequences since the incident took place on September 11. He alleges that he has lost £700,000 (approximately USD 852,432.00) and was forced to sell his beauty supply store as a result. Now, the 45-year-old former retail shop owner and his children are in hiding in the countryside, facing dire financial circumstances. Sindho expressed his struggle to provide warm meals for his family, stating that they have been surviving on bread with jam and chocolate.
The confrontation between Sindho and the Black female customer reportedly began when he refused to refund her for three wigs valued at £7.99 each (around $9.74). Sindho claims that while he did not offer a refund, he did offer to exchange the items. He alleges that the woman attempted to leave the store with additional merchandise, leading him to try to detain her. Sindho admitted to putting his hands around her throat, but he insisted that he was acting in self-defense to protect his property.
In the disturbing viral video, Sindho can be seen blocking the woman’s path as she tries to exit the shop. The woman appears visibly upset, holding several items, while arguing with Sindho. At one point, the store owner pushes her back into the store and briefly chokes her before she cries out for help, accusing him of strangling her.
An 18-year-old witness who captured the video explained that Sindho forcefully dragged the woman back inside the store when she attempted to leave. The witness stated that the woman had requested a refund and, when refused, insisted on receiving what she paid for with her money. The witness further claimed that Sindho’s aggression escalated after he physically pushed her out of the shop.
Authorities detained and then released the woman on suspicion of assault charges following the incident. Conversely, Sindho was not detained by the police despite the alleged choking incident, which has raised questions among the community.
The incident has ignited widespread outrage, with protesters gathering outside Peckham Hair and Cosmetics to support the victim and denounce violence against Black women. Demonstrators have been rallying in front of the store, demanding justice for the woman who was manhandled by Sindho. Reports indicate that the shop’s new owners are suffering from daily protests, leading to an estimated 80% decline in their business, amounting to £3,000 ($3,656.52) in lost revenue each day.
As the aftermath of this dismaying incident unfolds, people are watching closely to see how authorities respond to the demands for accountability and justice.
