Oumar Traore, an 18-year-old from Birmingham, has declined to give evidence in his trial for the murder of 19-year-old Yassin Alama, who was fatally stabbed in what prosecutors describe as a postcode gang war between Handsworth and Aston.
The incident occurred on Hutton Road, Handsworth, at approximately 5.20pm on Sunday, November 16, 2025. Traore, then aged 16 and allegedly a member of the 'B20' Handsworth gang known as 'Omizz', is accused of stabbing Alama, who was linked to rival gangs in Aston.
Trial Developments
On Wednesday, June 17, the prosecution formally closed its case at Birmingham Crown Court. Gurdeep Garcha KC, representing Traore, informed the court: "Can I indicate I will not be calling Oumar Traore to give evidence in his own defence."
Judge Heidi Kubik KC confirmed with Mr Garcha that Traore had been advised of his right to give evidence and the potential consequences of not doing so. The judge then informed the jury that all evidence had been presented. The trial has been adjourned until Monday, June 29, for legal directions and closing speeches.
Prosecution Allegations
Prosecutors allege that less than two hours before the fatal stabbing, Traore filmed himself chasing Alama's 14-year-old younger brother around the International Mini Market on Broadway, an area described as the border of rival gang territories. The deceased reportedly learned of this incident and entered opposing turf in Handsworth alone.
The jury heard that Alama initially fought with associates of Traore on Westminster Road before encountering the defendant. Both individuals were armed with knives, and CCTV captured a knife fight in the street. After separating, Alama stumbled across the road and collapsed, having suffered a 'through and through' stab wound to his abdomen.
Within five minutes, Traore allegedly uploaded a video to Snapchat showing a black and blue zombie knife, stating: "Look at the meat on that it's warm, it's warm." He was arrested a week later from an address in Harborne.
Defense Statement
In a prepared statement, Traore claimed he had carried a knife due to being stabbed twice previously, including on September 9, 2025. He stated that on November 16, he was on his way to Star City with friends when Alama confronted him, shouting that he had a zombie knife. Traore said he felt threatened and acted in self-defense, fearing serious harm or death. He added, "During the incident, I was stabbed in my right thigh. I did not deliberately stab him. I was acting in lawful self defence."
Traore denies murder and possession of a knife in public. The trial continues.
