Thank you for subscribing!
West Midlands Police has launched an investigation into a suspected firebomb attack which destroyed two luxury supercars outside a Pakistani wedding venue.
Hooded attackers hurled at least three petrol bombs at a McLaren and a Ferrari parked outside Royal Shalimar on Highgate Road, Birmingham, on Wednesday evening sending both vehicles up in flames.
Approximately 500 guests were inside the venue celebrating a wedding at the time of the assault.
The incident took place at around 8.50pm according to CCTV footage with police confirming no one was hurt.
West Midlands Police have opened an investigation into the attack.
A spokesman said in a statement: "An investigation has been launched after two cars were set on fire in Sparkbrook last night (Wed).
"At around 8.30pm, we were called to Royal Shalimar on Highgate Road.
"Three men were spotted running down Mole Street before getting into a white Volkswagen golf and driving off. Fortunately no injuries were reported.
"We have been speaking to witnesses and reviewing CCTV as part of our investigation. Anyone with information is asked to get in touch via Live Chat on our website or by calling 101 quoting log 5308 of 18 August."
CCTV footage circulated on social media captured several black-clad figures positioned across the street from the venue moments before the attack.
The recordings show what appear to be petrol bombs being launched towards the parked supercars, igniting both the McLaren and the Ferrari.
Several smaller blazes also erupted in the surrounding area, with one fire breaking out directly at the front of Royal Shalimar.
Venue staff acted swiftly, grabbing fire extinguishers to battle the flames before emergency crews could reach the scene.
The footage also showed the attackers fleeing after men emerged from the venue to confront them.
Fahim Kayani, one of the 500 wedding guests present that evening, described the moment the attack unfolded.
He told the Birmingham Mail: "I was inside enjoying my meal when this very serious incident took place."
He praised the rapid response of restaurant workers, who extinguished the flames before emergency services arrived.
"Everyone stayed very calm but it could have been a lot worse," he said.
Mr Kayani highlighted how close bystanders came to danger, noting that young people had been standing near the targeted vehicles.
"One kicked one of the missiles away before it could roll under one of the cars. One young child was just a few metres away," he said. "The police need to find those responsible."
Royal Shalimar, which can accommodate more than 1,000 guests, describes itself on its website as contributing to Birmingham's status as a "hub of multiculturalism".
The venue was hosting a large wedding celebration when the attack occurred.
