SMETHWICK (UK), Feb 22 (Alliance News): An 18-year-old British Pakistani teenager was tragically killed in a knife attack outside a mosque in Smethwick, a town neighbouring Birmingham, on Friday evening.
The incident occurred outside Oldbury Jamia Masjid while worshippers were offering Taraweeh prayers during the holy month of Ramadan. The victim was identified as Zeeshan Afzal, a resident of Smethwick.
Two other young men, aged 19 and 22, also sustained knife injuries and are currently being treated in hospital, where their condition is said to be stable and not life-threatening.
According to West Midlands Police, officers were alerted to a disorder in the car park of Jamia Masjid Chashma-e-Rahmat on Oldbury Road. Upon arrival, emergency responders found Zeeshan Afzal with critical stab wounds. Despite efforts by paramedics, he succumbed to his injuries shortly afterwards.
The tragic incident has left the local community deeply shocked and grieving, particularly as it took place during Ramadan. Worshippers said they were confronted with a heavy police and paramedic presence as they exited the mosque after prayers.
The car park was cordoned off as a crime scene, and worshippers were instructed to remain inside the mosque for approximately 40 minutes before being allowed to leave. Vehicles were not permitted to be removed from the premises as investigations began.
West Midlands Police have launched a murder investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the attack and identify those responsible. In a statement, a police spokesperson said the force was doing everything possible to support the victim’s family during this difficult time.
Authorities have appealed to residents and eyewitnesses to come forward with any information that could assist in the investigation.
Police also stated that, at this stage, there is no evidence to suggest the attack was racially or religiously motivated. However, they acknowledged the distress caused to the community and assured that a visible police presence will continue in the area to provide reassurance.
