Sikh Activist Arrested Over Ceremonial Dagger in Hammersmith Standoff
Harman Singh Kapoor, owner of the non-halal Indian restaurant Rangrez in west London, was handcuffed and taken away by Met police on Friday, 14 March 2026. The tense arrest unfolded outside his eatery after a heated standoff caught on viral video showed officers detaining Kapoor on suspicion of carrying a prohibited bladed weapon — his kirpan, the Sikh ceremonial dagger.
Tensions Explode After Protest Rally Outside Rangrez
Just hours before the dramatic arrest, Kapoor called on supporters to gather outside his restaurant on Fulham Palace Road. The message followed a fierce protest the night before, where more than 100 people blocked the restaurant’s entrance for hours.
In footage posted prior to his detention, Kapoor vowed to defend his family and admitted he no longer trusted the police to keep them safe.
Supporters Slam Police, Critics Cite Threats
The arrest triggered a firestorm of debate. Supporters condemned what they called “uneven policing,” accusing officers of ignoring the crowd blockade on Thursday night but swooping in on Kapoor instead.
Critics pointed to Kapoor’s recorded threats to use force as essential context justifying his arrest.
Non-Halal Signage Sparks Months of Abuse and Violence
Kapoor has faced ongoing hostility since putting up signs at Rangrez proudly declaring it “non-halal,” serving jhatka meat according to Sikh tradition. The controversial move sparked protests, online abuse, vandalism, and threats against his family.
In February 2026, Kapoor announced plans to close the restaurant after 16 years, only to reverse his decision amid a surge of public backing. He also claims his car was shot at and vandalised during his outspoken fight against Khalistani extremists.
This isn’t Kapoor’s first run-in with the law. In May 2025, he was arrested after a confrontation where he allegedly used racially charged language while defending himself from attackers.
The Met has yet to comment officially on Friday’s arrest, but the drama outside Rangrez shows no sign of dying down, drawing crowds and sparking intense social media buzz.
