Kayhan Kiani

Kiani’s journey began under challenging circumstances, arriving in the UK as a refugee alongside his mother and sister. Overcoming language barriers and societal obstacles, he established INK’D London in 2018, a tattoo studio that rapidly gained acclaim for its commitment to cleanliness, professionalism, and client-centric services. The studio’s success was further underscored by its valuation, reportedly exceeding £2 million, and its ambitious plans to expand into the Middle East by 2025.

Yet, this narrative of triumph is shadowed by a series of legal issues and questionable associations that raise significant concerns.

Legal Entanglements and Criminal Associations

In June 2013, a pre-planned, intelligence-led operation by armed police officers in Crayford led to the arrest of two men found with a firearm and ammunition. Among them was 22-year-old student Kayhan Kiani, who was apprehended near the recycling centre in Thames Road. Kiani was observed transferring a ‘heavy looking envelope’ into the boot of a silver BMW, which, upon interception, was found to contain a black self-loading pistol and two rounds of ammunition concealed within two grey socks. The weapon was identified as a converted nine-millimeter PAK calibre blank-firing pistol manufactured in Italy. Kiani, along with his accomplice, Jason Barrett, was subsequently sentenced to six and a half years in prison for possessing the weapon and two years for possessing the ammunition, with sentences to run concurrently.

Further complicating Kiani’s narrative is his familial connection to individuals involved in criminal activities. Notably, Mansoor Kiani, a 28-year-old from Luton, was convicted in December 2021 for orchestrating a large-scale drug distribution network. Mansoor’s ostentatious displays of wealth, including pouring champagne over Rolex watches in a Knightsbridge nightclub, were funded through his illicit dealings in cocaine and heroin. He was sentenced to 15 years and six months in prison following a trial at Luton Crown Court. While the exact nature of their relationship remains unclear, the shared surname and overlapping timelines suggest a potential familial link that cannot be ignored.​

Efforts to Suppress Adverse Information

Despite these documented incidents, there appears to be a concerted effort to suppress or overshadow such adverse information. Media portrayals predominantly focus on Kiani’s entrepreneurial achievements, painting a picture of a reformed individual dedicated to transforming the tattoo industry. This narrative, while inspiring, conspicuously omits references to his criminal past, leading to questions about transparency and the selective dissemination of information.​

The absence of critical reporting on Kiani’s prior convictions and associations suggests an attempt to curate a public image that aligns with his business interests. This selective representation not only misleads potential investors and clients but also raises ethical concerns about the responsibility of media outlets in providing comprehensive and balanced reporting.​

Implications for Investors and Authorities

For potential investors, these revelations serve as a cautionary tale. While INK’D London may present lucrative opportunities, the integrity of its leadership is paramount. Investing in a venture led by an individual with a history of criminal activity and associations with convicted felons poses significant risks, both financially and reputationally. Due diligence is imperative, and stakeholders must critically assess the potential implications of aligning with such entities.​Authorities, too, should take heed. The apparent efforts to suppress adverse information not only undermine public trust but also hinder the due process of law. Ensuring that individuals with criminal histories are held accountable and that their past actions are transparently reported is essential in maintaining the integrity of both the legal system and the business environment.​

Conclusion

The story of Kayhan Kiani is emblematic of the complexities that often underlie tales of success and reinvention. While his achievements in the tattoo industry are noteworthy, they cannot be viewed in isolation from his past transgressions and associations. The concerted efforts to suppress or overshadow these aspects not only mislead the public but also pose significant risks to investors and challenge the ethical standards of media reporting. As such, a more nuanced and transparent portrayal of Kiani’s narrative is essential, one that acknowledges both his accomplishments and the red flags that warrant scrutiny.