Two men sentenced following Banbury stabbing
02/08/2025
One of the men held the victim whilst the other stabbed him
Two men have been given prison sentences following a stabbing in Banbury town centre during the early hours of September 1 last year.
Oxford Crown Court heard that a man in his thirties had been involved in an altercation with Niko Gjika and Harry Reading in Banbury Market Place at around 12.05am.
When he subsequently left the JT Davies pub he was followed by Gjika, who had picked up a steak knife.
A second altercation then took place in the Bolton Road Car Park and the victim attempted to get away, but he was grabbed by Reading and held, whilst Gjika stabbed him.
Police officers saw the victim in the Market Square and gave him first aid until an ambulance team arrived. The victim was sent to hospital for treatment for his serious injuries.
Gjika, who’s 47 and from McKeevor Place in Banbury, was arrested on September 5. Reading, who’s 24 and from Middleton Road in Banbury was arrested on September 19.
In court Gjika pleaded guilty to one count each of section 18 wounding with intent and possessing a knife in a public place. He was sentenced to four years in prison.
Reading was found guilty of section 20 GBH following a three day trial and was sentenced to one year and six months in prison. He was acquitted of section 18 wounding with intent.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Gareth Steward said: “Thames Valley Police is committed to removing weapons from our streets I hope this sentencing shows that anyone who carries and uses a knife can expect face the courts.
“Knife carrying will not be tolerated in our communities and public are key to us tackling knife crime. If you have any information about anybody you know who may be carrying a knife, you can report this to us.
“You can contact the force directly via our website or call 101.
“Alternatively, for 100% anonymity, call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
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