A MAN has been jailed for seven years after stabbing a man in Banbury last year.

Atique Akhtar, 21, was found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of an offensive weapon by a jury after an eight-day trial at Oxford Crown Court.

The court heard he attacked a 22-year-old man with a knife at Moor Park, Banbury, on September 11, leaving him with a stomach injury.

Akhtar, of Fergusson Road, Banbury, was sentenced on May 6. He was jailed for seven years for the GBH and three years for possession of a knife, to run concurrently.

Co-defendant Umir Bashir, 22, was found not guilty of wounding with intent.

Investigating officer, Pc Richard Blewitt said: “This was a violent incident which resulted in the victim having to receive hospital treatment.

“This sentence sends a clear message that violence will be dealt with robustly in Banbury.

“I would like to thank all the officers and staff who have worked on the investigation, as well as the Crown Prosecution Service for bringing Akhtar to justice.

“Finally, and most importantly, I would like to thank the victim for helping our investigation and for the courage they displayed during the trial.”