An 18 year old British Pakistani, Zeeshan Afzal, was fatally stabbed in a mosque parking area in Birmingham on the first Friday of Ramzan. The attack took place shortly after Isha prayers, when a group of young worshippers were leaving the mosque. Two other teenagers were injured in the incident and remain under medical treatment.
Emergency services arrived at the scene within minutes, but Zeeshan could not survive his injuries. The area was sealed off as forensic teams began collecting evidence. According to West Midlands Police, an investigation is ongoing, and officers are reviewing CCTV footage from nearby buildings. Authorities have appealed to the public for information that could help identify those responsible.
Community leaders described the incident as deeply shocking, especially during the holy month of Ramzan, a time associated with prayer and peace. Local mosques and youth groups have urged calm and asked people not to spread unverified information on social media.
Knife crime remains a serious concern in parts of the United Kingdom. Government data in recent years has shown fluctuations in reported knife related offences, prompting increased policing and prevention efforts.
Faith leaders in Birmingham have called for stronger youth engagement programs and community cooperation to prevent further violence.
The tragic loss of a young life has left family, friends, and the wider community grieving, as they await justice and answers.
