Murdered teenager focus of knife crime documentary

A Channel 4 documentary will explore how the fatal stabbing of a 16-year-old boy by another teenager impacted his family.

Ashraf Habimana died on 29 September 2023 after being stabbed on Nunnery Lane in Luton. His mother had been on her way to pick him up from college.

An upcoming episode of 24 Hours in Police Custody explores the consequences of using zombie-style knives, before they were banned in 2024, and shows the impact the attack had on the boy's mother.

Supt Alex House of Bedfordshire Police said: "This documentary offers a powerful and unflinching insight into the devastating reality of knife crime."

Seven teenagers were sentenced in connection with the incident including two brothers who were convicted for his death.

Athif Hussaindeen was given a minimum custodial term of 24 years after being convicted of murdering Ashraf.

Althaf Hussaindeen was given a seven-year minimum term after being convicted of manslaughter.

The judge at Luton Crown Court heard how Ashraf had been unarmed and had tried to get away, but had been punched by Althaf, then stabbed by Athif.

The Channel 4 programme will follow Bedfordshire Police during a national surrender of zombie knives in 2024.

It will also feature the story of Ronan Kanda who was killed with a ninja sword close to his home in Wolverhampton in June 2022.

The 16-year-old was stabbed to death in a case of mistaken identity.

Two teenagers were jailed for his death, one of his attackers had just collected knives bought online and mistook Ronan for his friend.

Speaking of the documentary House added: "It shows just how dangerous and destructive weapons like zombie knives and ninja swords are, and why it is so important that we work together to stop them falling into the hands of young people.

"Strong partnerships across services play a vital role in addressing root causes and supporting a long-term, preventative approach to knife crime.

"I hope this programme delivers a clear message directly to young people about the very real risks and consequences of purchasing or carrying a knife, and encourages them to surrender any weapons, seek support and ultimately to just drop it."

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