Independent Review Announced into Henry Nowak's Murder
Source reports published 26 Oct 2026, 10:00 am – 27 Oct 2026, 1:25 am AEST
Shabana Mahmood has launched an independent review into the murder of Henry Nowak, following claims of missed opportunities to prevent the crime and scrutiny of police response. The review will investigate the police, health services, and the Nowak family’s experience within the justice system.
What happened
- Henry Nowak, an 18-year-old student, was fatally stabbed in Southampton in December by Vickrum Digwa, who falsely claimed racial abuse and acting in self-defense.
- Digwa was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 21 years.
- Following the stabbing, police bodycam footage of Nowak being handcuffed while dying sparked widespread debate about knife laws, race, and policing.
- The Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, commissioned a review led by former Justice Secretary Alex Chalk KC to investigate what was known about Digwa’s behavior, if opportunities to intervene were missed, and the treatment of the Nowak family within the criminal justice system.
- The review will initially examine the actions of police, health services, local authorities, educational institutions, and faith organizations, focusing on weapon possession and violent behavior.
- Subsequently, the review will consider the findings of the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) investigation into the police response on the night of the murder, specifically regarding the officers’ failure to recognize Nowak’s need for urgent medical attention.
- The Nowak family expressed their disappointment with the criminal justice system’s handling of their case and welcomed the review as a crucial step towards uncovering the full truth and achieving accountability.
- Digwa had a history of threatening behavior, including reported incidents at a local gurdwara, and was carrying two knives at the time of the murder.
- The IOPC investigation is examining the actions of two officers who attended the scene and handcuffed Nowak.
Original reporting
- BBC: Independent review announced into murder of student Henry Nowak
2026-10-26T15:25:29.118000+00:00 - Guardian: Shabana Mahmood launches review into murder of student Henry Nowak
2026-10-26T00:00:00+00:00 - GB News: Shabana Mahmood announces independent review into Henry Nowak's murder
2026-10-26T15:22:26+00:00