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An investigation is underway after police detained and handcuffed an 18-year-old university student who was fatally stabbed. Henry Nowak, a first-year student at the University of Southampton, suffered multiple stab wounds inflicted by a ceremonial knife measuring 21 centimeters when officers responded to the incident in December in Southampton.
The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary issued an apology after 23-year-old Vickrum Digwa was found guilty of murder. During the trial, it emerged that Digwa had fabricated a story to the police, falsely claiming to be the victim and alleging that he had been racially abused. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) confirmed it has launched an inquiry into the conduct of the officers involved.
Henry, originally from Chafford Hundred in Essex, was returning alone to his student accommodation following a night out with his football teammates when he crossed paths with Digwa. Digwa, who said he carried the knife due to his Sikh faith, attempted to justify his actions by alleging self-defence, claiming Henry was intoxicated, used racial slurs, physically assaulted him, and knocked off his turban. However, toxicology results showed Henry’s blood alcohol level was below the drink-drive limit. Prosecutors described Digwa’s story as a “wicked lie,” a view supported by the jury.
Despite Henry’s evident injuries and the trail of blood he left while fleeing his attacker, police initially handcuffed and arrested him based on Digwa’s false accusations. Temporary Deputy Chief Constable Robert France expressed regret over the handling of the case, stating, “It is a tragedy that officers did not immediately understand what had happened to Henry. I am sorry that he had been handcuffed and arrested as he lost consciousness.” He emphasized the importance of transparency regarding the incident and confirmed that the officers involved, who also performed CPR on Henry, have been deeply affected.
The IOPC reiterated its sympathy to Henry’s family and others affected and is conducting an independent investigation into police interactions with Henry before his death, including the use of restraints and the first aid administered. This inquiry began after a mandatory referral from the force, and the officers involved are currently considered witnesses.
Crime and Policing Minister Sarah Jones commented on the case, describing it as “truly horrific” and extending her condolences to Henry’s loved ones. She acknowledged the pain the family has endured and expressed hope that the verdict offers some measure of justice while supporting the IOPC investigation aimed at uncovering the full truth.
Sentencing for Vickrum Digwa is scheduled to take place at Southampton Crown Court on Monday
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