Court clears millionaire over fishing knife possession

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, September 3, 2026

Sheikh Abid Gulzar, a businessman known as Mr Goldfinger, was cleared of knife possession charges after explaining in court that the fishing knife found in his van was intended for use during fishing at his private lake. The case underscores how the legal status of carrying certain items depends on the context and legitimate purpose behind their possession.

Sheikh Abid Gulzar, an 81-year-old businessman known as Mr Goldfinger, was cleared of charges related to possession of a fishing knife after explaining its intended use during a court hearing in Brighton. Gulzar, who owns the seaside piers in Hastings and Eastbourne, was stopped by police early one Sunday in May 2025 and found to have the knife in the glove compartment of his van.

During proceedings at Brighton Magistrates’ Court, Gulzar stated that the knife was meant for cutting fish and that he had been fishing at his private lake earlier that day. The knife was described as a fishing tool, and the court accepted that it was carried for legitimate purposes linked to his recreational activity.

The arrest followed an unrelated police stop. The investigation into the knife possession did not result in any further action, as authorities acknowledged the explanation provided by Gulzar regarding its use.

No additional allegations or charges were brought against Gulzar, who maintains a high profile as a hotelier originally from India. The case highlights the circumstances under which possession of certain items may be lawful depending on context and intent.

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