Two teenagers, Athif and Althaf Hussaindeen, have been sentenced following the brutal murder of 16-year-old Ashraf Habimana in Luton. The tragic incident occurred on the evening of September 29, 2023, when a fight between two feuding groups of teenagers escalated into violence. Ashraf, who had not been involved in the earlier dispute, was caught up in the altercation when the groups clashed once again.
The altercation started earlier in the day on Runfold Avenue and was exacerbated by social media posts, with several teenagers arriving armed with knives. Althaf Hussaindeen was captured on CCTV assaulting Ashraf, who was then fatally stabbed in the back three times by his twin brother, Athif. Ashraf was rushed to the hospital but tragically died from his injuries. Another 16-year-old was also stabbed but survived the attack.
Athif, aged 18, was found guilty of Ashraf’s murder, as well as attempted murder, violent disorder, and possession of a bladed article. His brother Althaf was found guilty of manslaughter and violent disorder. Both were arrested shortly after the incident and charged with murder.
At the sentencing, Ashraf’s grieving family shared the immense pain of losing their son, describing him as a “calm, caring, and extraordinary” individual who was taken too soon. They have since launched the Ashraf Habimana Foundation, aiming to raise awareness about the dangers of knife crime with the slogan, “Don’t destroy a life, Destroy the knife.”
Athif Hussaindeen was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 24 years, while Althaf Hussaindeen was sentenced to seven years in prison for his role in the killing.
Detective Inspector Graham Newton, who led the investigation, expressed his sympathy for the family and highlighted the devastating impact of knife violence. He stressed that social media played a significant role in escalating the conflict, urging young people to consider the consequences of their actions.
This case serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the consequences of knife crime and the ripple effects it has on families and communities.