Man admits murder attempt after 'frenzied' attack

A man who carried out a "terrifying and entirely unprovoked attack" with a broken bottle on a woman at a bus stop in Leeds has admitted attempted murder.

Ibrahim Albashir attacked his victim, in her 30s, near the Original Oak pub on Otley Road at about 21:00 GMT on 17 March 2024, Leeds Crown Court heard.

West Yorkshire Police said the woman suffered cuts to her head and neck in the attack.

Albashir, 32, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty on what would have been the first day of his trial, and was remanded into custody to be sentenced on 16 June.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said the victim was walking down the popular student main road, having been for dinner at a nearby restaurant, when she was attacked without warning.

"Albashir continued the frenzied assault even as witnesses rushed towards him, and only stopped when members of the public physically intervened," the CPS said.

"Had bystanders not stepped in, the attack could have proved fatal."

An expert medical witness found Albashir was "fit and capable of forming the intent to murder at the time of the offence", the CPS said.

It was concluded that his behaviour was "repetitive and deliberate", it added, and that he was aware of his actions throughout the attack.

"This was a terrifying and entirely unprovoked attack on a young woman walking home after an evening out," said Aamir Sajad, Senior Crown Prosecutor for CPS Yorkshire and Humberside.

"Ibrahim Albashir deliberately targeted her and inflicted serious injuries that could easily have killed her."

The CPS added that it was testimony to the bravery of people who intervened that the woman was still alive today.

"Albashir initially sought to avoid responsibility for his violent actions, but we were able to work closely with West Yorkshire Police to present clear evidence that he knew exactly what he was doing," Sajad said.

"I hope today's outcome brings some comfort to the victim and demonstrates the CPS will always seek to prosecute those who commit violence against women and girls."

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