Birmingham Murder Suspect Still at Large After 10 Days: Police Appeal for Information
West Midlands Police have issued a renewed public appeal for information as a suspect in a fatal stabbing remains on the run ten days after the tragic incident. Detectives are urgently seeking to trace Zachariah Liburd, aged 22, in connection with the murder of Chris Ikouara, 19, who was stabbed to death at a property in Acocks Green.
Details of the Acocks Green Tragedy
The violent attack occurred on Tuesday, January 13, at an address on Olton Boulevard East in the Acocks Green area of Birmingham. Emergency services were called to the scene, but despite their efforts, Chris Ikouara was pronounced dead at the location. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, with police describing it as a devastating loss.
Detectives from the force's homicide unit have been working tirelessly since the murder, conducting a thorough investigation that includes:
- Interviewing multiple witnesses to gather accounts of what transpired.
- Recovering and meticulously reviewing CCTV footage from the surrounding area to piece together events.
- Following up on all available leads to establish the circumstances leading to the stabbing.
Police Urge Suspect to Come Forward
In a direct appeal, Detective Superintendent Jim Munro of the West Midlands Police homicide unit has called on Zachariah Liburd to surrender himself. He stated, "We urge Liburd to do the right thing - come forward before we find you." The police have released an image of Liburd to aid the public in identifying him and have emphasised that anyone with information should come forward immediately.
The family of Chris Ikouara is grappling with immense grief following the sudden and violent death. His sister, Jennifer, expressed the family's anguish, saying they are "devastated and struggling to process this sudden and violent loss." The emotional toll on loved ones underscores the urgency of resolving this case.
How the Public Can Assist the Investigation
West Midlands Police are encouraging anyone with knowledge about the incident or the whereabouts of Zachariah Liburd to make contact. Information can be provided through the following channels:
- Call the police non-emergency number 101, quoting log reference 2771 of 13 January.
- Use the Live Chat function available on the West Midlands Police website, ensuring to mention the same log reference.
- For those wishing to remain anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. All information shared with Crimestoppers is confidential and could be crucial to the investigation.
The police have reassured the community that all tips will be treated with the utmost sensitivity and could play a vital role in bringing justice for Chris Ikouara and closure for his grieving family.
