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Seven men have appeared in court charged with violent disorder after two mass brawls in Newbridge and Blackwood.

Newport Magistrates’ Court was told on Monday February 17 the disorder was in relation to a “turf war” between rival barbers over plans for a new shop in Newbridge.

At around 2.45pm on Thursday February 13, Gwent Police were called to an ‘alleged disorder’ on Blackwood High Street, and ten minutes later were called to another incident on Newbridge High Street.

Around 16 people were involved in the fights with several injured – including one with a stab wound.

The seven men charged with violent disorder are: Bave Hamed, 30, of Cwrt Bryn y Grug, Blackwood; Shahab Husseini, 24, of Clarence Street, Pontypool; Sardam Ebrahimi, 25, of Central Avenue, Oakdale; Bryar Muradi, 28, of Central Avenue, Oakdale; Alan Karimi, 30, of Malefant Street, Cardiff: Adnan Mohamad, 29, of Malefant Street, Cardiff; and Krmanj Sadiq, 29 of Ferry Court, Cardiff.

All of the defendants were refused bail and the court was told they all intend to plead not guilty.

They were remanded in custody and will appear next at crown court on March 17.

‘Isolated incident’

Gwent Police has said an eighth man, also arrested on suspicion of violent disorder, remains in hospital receiving treatment. His injuries are not thought to be life-threatening or life-changing.

Police continue to appeal for information from the public. People can call 101, quoting the following log reference: Blackwood: 2500047958 and Newbridge: 2500047973 or contact the force via direct message on social media.

Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.

In a statement issued before the court hearing, Superintendent Michael Preston said: “We understand the impact that this incident can have on the community, and we’d like to offer reassurance that this incident is an isolated one and not linked to previous antisocial behaviour reported in the area.

“We’d also like to thank our community for their support and for reporting this to us quickly which allowed our officers to swiftly attend, arrest and subsequently see seven men charged.

“Violent disorder will not be tolerated and we’re proud to work with our community and partners to keep Gwent a safe place to live and work.”