Madame JoJo’s bouncer cleared of assault which led to venue’s closure

A former Madame JoJo’s bouncer has been cleared of an assault which played a key role in the legendary London venue’s closure.

Madame JoJo’s closed down after losing its license in 2014. It followed a “serious incident” outside the Soho venue on October 24, which saw a violent altercation between bouncers and a customer. It was reported that the customer threw glass bottles, and the bouncers retaliated with baseball bats.

Yesterday (March 17), Jevgenji Makrov, 34, was unanimously acquitted by a jury at Southwark Crown Court, after facing charges of actual bodily harm and common assault on Ahmed Noor.

During the course of the trial, the court heard how Mr Noor had been aggressive, abusive and threatened to stab and kill staff providing security to the club. CCTV evidence showed him throwing glass bottles. A passer by was hit and needed hospital treatment for serious cuts.

The jury was also told that Mr Noor had numerous previous convictions including for violence, possession of a knife in public, robbery and possession of drugs.

He was also charged with offences arising from the incident at Madame JoJo’s to which he pleaded guilty. He is now serving a 22 month prison sentence.

Counsel for Mr Markrov, Brent Martin, said his client had “acted appropriately in dealing with the threats and violence perpetrated upon innocent members of the public” on the night in question.

Mr Markrov, who has been suspended from work for the 18 months since the incident, says he is pleased to have his innocence proven, and is looking forward to getting back into security work as soon as possible.

The acquittal will give crucial support to campaigners who are believe the closure of Madame JoJo’s was unwarranted.

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