Swedish chef Mussie Imnetu died from ‘catastrophic brain injuries’ sustained in an attack at a west London restaurant last Monday. Omar Wilson, 31, has been charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent
A Leytonstone man is facing trial for causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent after a Dubai-based chef visiting London sustained “catastrophic brain injuries” in an assault at a West London restaurant last Monday night (26th August).
Omar Wilson, 31, of Napier Road, Leytonstone, appeared at Westminster Magistrates Court on Friday (30th August) where he entered no plea to the GBH charge. He was remanded in custody to appear at Southwark Crown Court on 27th September. According to media reports, Wilson works in the prison rehabilitation charity sector.
The GBH charge comes after police issued an appeal for information surrounding an attack at Dr Power restaurant in Queensway that left Mussie Imnetu, 41, in a critical condition.
Mussie, who is a Swedish national, had been visiting London before he was attacked. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, Mussie died in hospital on Friday (30th August).
Wilson was charged with GBH on Thursday (29th August). In light of Mussie’s death, the Metropolitan Police has said the offence will be reviewed in conjunction with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).
According to his LinkedIn profile, Mussie was executive head chef at The Brasserie at The Arts Club Dubai. The Swedish chef had previously worked at the exclusive members club’s London branch, and at the Oblix at The Shard and The Savoy Grill.
His profile also states he had worked with celebrity chefs like Alain Ducasse and Gordon Ramsay during his career.
The Arts Club Dubai’s website credits him for crafting an “ever-changing, seasonal menu inspired by flavours from the Mediterranean and beyond.” He worked at the largest of three restaurants at the members club, where a full annual membership costs around £3,260.
A statement from The Arts Club Dubai and London, said: “Known for his passion, calm demeanour and kindness, Mussie truly embodied the essence of the Club.
“A well-travelled chef, Mussie hails from Eritrea and grew up in Sweden. He was a keen footballer and famously counted on his now eight-year-old son to taste test his culinary masterpieces.
“Mussie will be dearly missed by the entire The Arts Club team. His legacy will live on through the passion and excellence he instilled in those around him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones.”
Detective Chief Inspector Brian Howie, leading the Metropolitan Police’s investigation, said: “Mussie’s family, friends and colleagues in London, Dubai, Sweden and Eritrea are inconsolable after receiving the worst news imaginable – our thoughts are with them and they are being supported by specialist officers.
“Our investigation is well advanced, but we are still very keen to hear from anyone who can help piece together Mussie’s movements between 1pm when we know he left The Arts Club in Dover Street, W1 and when he arrived at Dr Power restaurant, in Queensway at 10.30pm.
“If you visited the restaurant between 10pm and 11.30pm on Monday night or were in the area and saw something, regardless of the reason you were there, please do get in touch.”
The Met is looking to speak to customers at the Queensway restaurant who came to Mussie’s assistance during the attack, or with anyone who has any images or videos that could assist with its investigation.
Met officers will be outside the Dr Power restaurant in Queensway and in the surrounding area from 9pm tonight (2nd September), to hand out appeal leaflets and speak with local people.
Anyone with information should call the police on 101, messages @MetCC on X or contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 giving the reference 8020/26AUG
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