Overview: A high-profile attack in the British capital
Malaysian businessman and Petra Group chairman Vinod Sekhar was assaulted last week outside his daughter’s London home. The incident, which involved two assailants, left Sekhar with minor injuries and a reminder that even prominent global figures can be targets far from home. His wife, Winy Yeap, reportedly intervened during the assault, a moment he described as emblematic of loyalty and quick thinking in a dangerous moment.
The sequence of events
Sekhar said the incident occurred as he parked near Battersea Power Station, outside Tara Sekhar’s apartment. He and his family had spent the day in Oxford before returning to the residence. “But as I parked and stepped out of the car, two men suddenly appeared,” he recounted. The attackers allegedly moved in quickly, slamming into him, smothering, and striking him on the chest and thighs. They managed to tear his watch from his wrist before fleeing on Lime electric bikes.
In his post, Sekhar noted that his post-transplant health and medication complicated his ability to withstand the attack. The injuries were described as bruising and light bleeding, though he emphasised that his condition could have made the assault more serious had he resisted with greater force.
Wife’s courageous intervention
Witnessing the attack, Winy Yeap is said to have stepped in, swinging a bag and shouting at the assailants. Sekhar praised her actions, saying, “like the lioness she’s always been, my wife jumped in — swinging her bag, shouting at them, fearless and protective.” The attackers, apparently deterred by the interruption, fled on electric Lime bikes.
Police attended the scene within minutes. A London Metropolitan Police officer reportedly remarked to Sekhar that the couple were fortunate: the assailants might have escalated the violence further or used a different weapon. The family’s quick reaction, combined with authorities’ prompt response, likely prevented a more dire outcome.
Safety, security, and the Kuala Lumpur contrast
The incident prompted Sekhar to reflect on security in his home city of Kuala Lumpur. In his social media post, he expressed gratitude for Malaysia’s capital and its people, describing it as “one of the safest, warmest, most vibrant cities in the world.” He noted that, despite urban noise and political tensions, Kuala Lumpur remains a place where kindness often outweighs cruelty and where, even with imperfections, the community endures.
Practical takeaways for travelers
In a broader note to readers and tourists, Sekhar offered practical advice: avoid wearing expensive accessories and flashy bags when traveling, especially in major cities. If confronted, he urged letting go of valuables—“a watch, a wallet, a phone”—to prioritise personal safety. He emphasized that valuables can be replaced, while life and loved ones cannot. His message aligns with common travel safety guidance: stay aware of surroundings, protect personal items, and seek help quickly if danger arises.
About Vinod Sekhar and the Petra Group
Vinod Sekhar is the chairman and CEO of Petra Group, a diversified conglomerate with interests in energy, healthcare, and other sectors. He has been recognised for his business leadership and is a recipient of awards such as the Global Indian Award. While the attack is a startling event, Sekhar has used his platform to remind readers of the importance of personal safety while traveling and the value of regional solidarity—both for expatriates and locals alike.
Conclusion: Safety, resilience, and staying alert
The London incident is a sobering reminder that danger can appear anywhere. It also highlights the bravery of family members who act decisively in crisis moments. For Sekhar, the experience reinforces a broader message: while cities can be unpredictable, a strong community, rapid police response, and calm, precautionary steps can make a critical difference when seconds count.
