Man who defused summer riots goes on trial for assault

A father who was credited with helping to bring to an end last summer's riots punched a man to the ground during an argument outside his workplace, a court has heard.

Tariq Jahan, 46, allegedly assaulted Sajjad Ali in Handsworth, on 6 July last year. Mr Ali, 34, told Birmingham Crown Court he was grabbed by the throat by the defendant, punched in the face and knocked to the floor, then kicked or punched while he was on the ground. Mr Ali was taken to hospital and treated for two fractures to his jaw.

Mr Jahan denies one count of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and inflicting grievous bodily harm. He accepts that he did have an altercation with Mr Ali but says he was acting in self defence. The trial continues.