Ace Line Drug Dealers Convicted of Murdering Beloved Father 'Yankee' in Birmingham Street Attack
Two drug dealers who operated the notorious 'Ace Line' have been found guilty of the brutal murder of a much-loved father in a Birmingham street. The verdict brings a measure of closure to a case that has shocked the local community and highlighted the devastating impact of drug-related violence.
The Fatal Confrontation
Craig Dean, aged 53 and affectionately known to his friends as Yankee, was outside an address on Springfield Road in Moseley on 7 July when an argument began via text message with Hamza Khan, aged 23, and Mohammed Rahman, aged 25. At approximately 4.50pm, Khan and Rahman drove to the scene where they confronted Craig, knocking him to the ground before subjecting him to a sustained and vicious assault.
The attackers continued to kick their victim repeatedly and were seen stomping on his head as he lay seriously injured on the pavement. After inflicting catastrophic injuries, both men fled the scene, leaving Craig fighting for his life. Despite the swift response from emergency services and the launch of a murder investigation by West Midlands Police, Craig's life support was switched off two days later, and he tragically passed away.
Police Investigation and Arrests
Murder detectives meticulously pieced together evidence from the scene, carrying out extensive CCTV trawls that identified the vehicle used by Khan and Rahman. This crucial breakthrough led investigators to identify both men as primary suspects in the case. The assailants' Vauxhall Corsa was discovered a short distance away, with forensic analysis confirming the presence of both Khan's and Rahman's DNA inside the vehicle.
Hamza Khan, of Anderton Park Road in Moseley, was arrested on 16 July after being found inside a holiday rental property in Worcestershire. Mohammed Rahman, of Mapleton Grove in Acocks Green, had attempted to flee the country but was apprehended at Heathrow Airport upon his return to the UK on 25 July. Both men were subsequently charged with murder and remanded in custody awaiting trial.
Court Verdict and Community Response
Following a trial at Birmingham Crown Court, both Khan and Rahman were convicted of murder and are due to be sentenced on 24 February. Throughout the investigation and court proceedings, Craig's daughters have been supported by specially trained police officers who provided crucial emotional and practical assistance during this traumatic period.
In a moving statement released after the verdict, Craig's daughters expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming community support they have received: "We as Craig's daughters sincerely appreciate all of the kind words said about our Dad and everyone that has taken interest in this case, demanding justice on his and our families behalf. The Facebook group which was created by your community in memoriam of Craig has 600 members, which is a testament to how loved he was and his impact on everyone that knew him."
They continued: "He was an amazing father, and we want to thank everyone that took the time to get to know him or has shown support to our family during this horrific time. We will never forget the kindness you have shown us."
Police Statement on the Case
Detective Inspector Dan Jarratt, who led the investigation, commented on the significance of the verdict: "Today's guilty verdicts for murder mark the conclusion of a complex investigation into the brutal and senseless murder of Craig Dean, known as 'Yankee' to his friends. Our thoughts remain firmly with Craig's family and loved ones, who have shown strength and dignity throughout this difficult process."
He added: "I hope this outcome brings them some measure of justice and closure. I would like to thank the dedicated investigators and partner agencies who worked tirelessly to secure these convictions. There is absolutely no place in our society for this level of violence and West Midlands Police remains resolute in our commitment to pursue those who commit serious violent offences and ensure they are held accountable for their actions."
The case has highlighted both the dangers of drug-related violence in urban communities and the importance of thorough police work in securing convictions for serious crimes. The community's response through the memorial Facebook group demonstrates how deeply Craig Dean was valued by those who knew him, and how his loss has been felt across Birmingham.
