A TAKEAWAY owner was warned he may be jailed after admitting stabbing a customer in a confrontation outside the premises.

Bakir Ahmed Ali, 24, is said to have armed himself with a knife in the altercation at UK Pizza, in Peterlee, on Saturday February 2.

The 33-year-old victim suffered a single wound to the upper arm and shoulder area from the blow, inflicted as the disturbance spilled outside into Yoden Way.

Ali today (Monday May 20) admitted a charge of unlawful wounding, having previously denied the more serious allegation of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

He also admitted possessing an offensive weapon, the knife, in public.

Robin Turton, prosecuting, said, following consultation with the reviewing lawyer and the senior officer in the case, the pleas were considered “acceptable” to the Crown.

Robin Patton, for Ali, asked for sentence to be adjourned pending preparation of a background report by the Probation Service on his client.

Mr Patton claimed the attack took place in response to allegedly abusive behaviour by the victim in the takeaway.

Agreeing to Mr Patton’s request, Recorder Amanda Rippon said: “It’s clear the complainant was abusive and offensive to people at that takeaway.

“All sentencing options remain open, although this certainly passes the custody level.”

She told Ali: “The fact I’m adjourning for a report and bailing you should be taken as no indication as to the sentence in this case.

“This is a very serious charge. You’re at risk of a custodial sentence, but that will be down to the judge who sentences you.”

She bailed Ali, of Buckingham Road, Peterlee, to return for sentence on Friday June 14.