Protests erupted in Southampton, UK, following the murder of 18-year-old student Henry Nowak. Hundreds gathered on Tuesday, and tensions escalated into violence.
Demonstrators chanted “Henry, Henry” while clashing with police and hurling objects such as stones and bricks. This unrest follows the trial of Vickrum Digwa, a 23-year-old man convicted of Nowak’s murder last month.
Digwa was found guilty of repeatedly stabbing Nowak in December while he was returning home from a night out with friends. He was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 21 years. Digwa had initially misled police by claiming he was a victim of a racist attack.
After the stabbing, bodycam footage showed officers handcuffing and arresting Nowak as he pleaded for help, stating he had been stabbed and could not breathe. In light of the incident, Hampshire Police have referred themselves to the Independent Office for Police Conduct for scrutiny over the actions of the arresting officers.
Far-right activist Tommy Robinson spoke at the protest, demanding accountability for the police involved. Nigel Farage, leader of the Reform party, praised Nowak’s family for their dignified response and suggested others should react with anger.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer criticized Farage’s remarks, asserting they sought to create division contrary to Nowak’s family’s wishes. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood condemned the violence, stating there is no justification for using the tragedy to incite disorder.
The protests resulted in injuries to 11 officers and one police dog. Chief Constable Alexis Boon acknowledged police accountability but condemned the violent actions during the protests.
Sikh community groups labeled Nowak’s murder “a moment of madness” while expressing concern over the community facing abuse during the trial. They emphasized that the weapon used was not the typical Kirpan worn by practicing Sikhs. The Kirpan is a religious blade, and prosecutors noted that Digwa carried both a Kirpan and a large dagger, complicating perceptions surrounding the case.
Source: www.euronews.com via Google News.
