Penge Chicken Shop Gunman Jailed Over Takeaway Sauce Dispute

An 18-year-old man who brandished a realistic imitation firearm and threatened to kill a fast-food worker during a dispute over a takeaway order has been jailed for three years.

Marwan Khadir, of Malcolm Close, Penge, was sentenced at Woolwich Crown Court after previously pleading guilty to possessing an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, making threats to kill, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

The court heard that the incident took place on Christmas Eve 2025 at a chicken shop on Penge High Street, where Khadir carried out an armed attack lasting more than two minutes after complaining he had been given the wrong sauces with his food.

CCTV footage played to the court showed Khadir initially questioning a member of staff, asking: “How many garlic sauces did you put in the bag?” before leaving the premises.

Read more: Joey Barton remanded in custody over golf club GBH charge

He later returned after discovering the order was incorrect, confronting the worker and shouting: “Bossman, come here. Why you give me four burger sauce? I asked for three garlic and three mayo.”

Khadir demanded the counter door be opened and climbed onto it before being pushed back by the employee. He then produced an imitation firearm, cocked it, and pointed it at the worker, shouting: “I’m going to kill you now, are you mad?”

The court was told the defendant also assaulted the worker during the incident.

The victim reported the matter to police on Christmas Day, triggering what was described as a fast-paced investigation. Officers carried out extensive CCTV enquiries, financial tracking, and local intelligence work between Christmas and New Year, leading to Khadir being identified.

Read more: Knife-wielding rapist jailed for 23 years after burnley attack

Armed officers arrested him on 2 January, executing a warrant at his address. A replica firearm and imitation ammunition were recovered, along with clothing matching that worn during the offence.

The prosecution case was supported by high-quality CCTV evidence and items seized during the arrest, forming what investigators described as a strong evidential package.

Khadir entered guilty pleas at Woolwich Crown Court on 30 January to all offences, including possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, threats to kill, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

Following sentencing, Detective Sergeant Amy Cross, who led the investigation, said: “The tireless work by officers on this case over the Christmas and New Year period is further evidence that policing never stops, and their efforts ultimately led to a conviction.

Read more: Car as a weapon: Man jailed for running over dog owner

“All our thoughts continue to remain with the victim of this terrifying ordeal, something no one should ever have to go through, let alone at their place of work. The strength he has shown since the attack has been remarkable.

“On top of this, the courage he demonstrated in coming forward and reporting the assault was incredibly brave. He was then able to subsequently identify the perpetrator, a crucial moment in allowing us to move the investigation forward.”