London Assault Stuns Mangrove of Global Business
Malaysian businessman and Petra Group chairman Vinod Sekhar was targeted in what authorities are treating as a street assault outside his daughter’s London residence. The incident, which Sekhar described on social media, left him with minor injuries but a stronger sense of how quickly danger can appear in any major city.
Sekhar, who also serves as CEO of Petra Group, revealed that two unidentified assailants approached as he parked near Battersea Power Station, outside the family home of his daughter, Tara. He said the attackers “suddenly appeared,” and what followed was a violent struggle that included choking, blows to the chest and thighs, and the tearing off of his watch. He noted that his post-transplant medication may have limited his ability to resist effectively at the moment.
In his account, the severity of the attack was tempered by his own caution, medical history, and the swift actions of those nearby. He described the bruises and light bleeding that resulted from the assault, explaining that the injuries were made more visible by blood thinners he takes as part of his heart transplant treatment. London police arrived within minutes, offering reassurance that Sekhar had escaped far worse harm.
Wife’s Courage Steals the Spotlight
A key moment in the episode, according to Sekhar, was the intervention by his wife, Winy Yeap. He credited her with “jumping in” to protect him, swinging her bag and shouting at the attackers. He described her as embodying “the lioness” in that moment, a metaphor that underscored the sense of protection and resolve she demonstrated as the situation unfolded. The assailants then fled on Lime electric bikes, leaving the couple shaken but physically intact for the moment.
Security authorities later confirmed that one officer noted Sekhar’s luck, suggesting the outcome could have been far worse if the attackers had had different intentions that day. The incident has sparked renewed debate about street safety for visitors and residents in major global capitals, especially for high-profile figures who may attract attention from criminals.
From London to Kuala Lumpur: A Reflection on Safety
In a closing note on his social media post, Sekhar contrasted the London incident with life in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He praised his home city for its warmth, vitality, and, crucially, its safety. While acknowledging KL’s imperfections, he emphasized that kindness and a sense of community remain strong, and that the city is a place where people look out for one another.
As a recipient of the Global Indian Award, Sekhar’s public remarks carry weight in business circles. His experience offers a sober reminder to travelers and executives alike: even in cities reputed for their cosmopolitan safety, vigilance is essential.
Advice for Tourists and Business Travelers
Sekhar shared practical guidance drawn from the incident. He warned travelers not to wear expensive accessories or display flashy bags, arguing that “these are replaceable” while life and safety are not. His counsel resonates with a broader safety mindset—prioritize personal well-being, be aware of surroundings, and disengage if threatened. If confronted with danger, letting go of valuables can be a prudent choice to maximize safety.
Authorities and security experts caution that incidents like this are rare but possible anywhere. The focus for travelers remains the same: stay aware, travel in groups when possible, and report suspicious activity to local authorities promptly.
