British police are facing a national backlash over their handling of the fatal stabbing of 18-year-old student Henry Nowak, who was handcuffed while dying from stab wounds after his attacker falsely claimed to be the victim of a racist assault.
Nowak was killed in Southampton, southern England, last December. His attacker, 23-year-old Vickrum Digwa, was sentenced to life imprisonment on Monday after admitting the stabbing and lying to police at the scene.
Body-worn camera footage released following the incident shows Nowak on the ground saying, “I’ve been stabbed” and “I can’t breathe,” while an officer responds: “I don’t think you have, mate.”
Police later removed his handcuffs and began CPR after realising the severity of his injuries.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said there were “serious questions” to answer about how allegations made by the attacker may have influenced police decision-making.
“It is impossible to watch that footage and not appreciate that those questions absolutely have to be answered,” he said.
The case has drawn political reaction from across the spectrum. Opposition figures accused authorities of being overly cautious in responding to the suspect’s claims, while government ministers urged restraint as investigations continue.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said all individuals must be treated equally before the law and warned against “inflammatory commentary” surrounding the case.
The case has triggered protests and renewed debate over policing standards, race and decision-making under pressure. A demonstration was expected in Southampton on Tuesday evening, with additional rallies planned elsewhere.
Far-right political figures have also seized on the case, linking it to broader debates about policing and social tensions in the UK.
Judge William Mousley noted during sentencing that the incident had fuelled racial tensions in Britain, while the victim’s family urged the public not to use the case to “create further division, hatred or tension”.
Hampshire Police have apologised for their handling of the incident, acknowledging failings in their initial response. The Attorney General’s Office is considering whether to review the 21-year minimum term imposed on Digwa, with a decision expected within 28 days.
Authorities say the case raises wider questions about how officers assess risk and credibility in fast-moving, high-pressure situations.
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