Thousands gather for funeral of murdered teen

Thousands of people gathered to pay their respects to a teenager who was fatally stabbed outside a mosque in Smethwick.

Zeeshan Afzal, 18, was discovered with serious injuries on Oldbury Road in Smethwick, following disorder on 20 February. He died shortly afterwards.

The service took place at Oldbury Jamia Masjid on Oldbury Road on Sunday from 11:00 GMT.

Ahead of the funeral, Sandwell Council warned of expected travel delays and advised that temporary traffic restrictions had been installed in the areas of the service.

A spokesperson for the council said: "Our thoughts and condolences are with the family, friends and wider community at this very sad time.

"The mosque committee, police and council are working closely with the family to plan a safe and dignified funeral, while also seeking to minimise disruption to residents, businesses and road users wherever possible."

Three teenage boys have been charged with Zeeshan's murder and remain in police custody.

In a charity fundraiser started in his memory, he was described as being known for his "kindness, generosity, and laughter that touched everyone who knew him".

"To lose him during Ramadan has been an indescribable pain," it read.

The force said inquiries were continuing and urged anyone with information to come forward.

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