Violent protests erupted near the scene of Henry Nowak's tragic stabbing death on Tuesday night, as demonstrators threw missiles at police officers. The 18-year-old university student was killed by Vickrum Digwa, who used a ceremonial knife with a 21cm blade. The unrest followed claims by the killer that he was a victim of a racial attack while Nowak lay dying in handcuffs.
Home Secretary Condemns Disorder
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood described the scenes in Portswood as "completely unacceptable," accusing demonstrators of hijacking the tragedy to incite violence. She emphasized that the Nowak family had urged against using the murder to fuel division or hatred. "Those responsible can expect to face the full force of the law," she said, praising police for their bravery.
Police Review of Guidance
The National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) announced it would review its Race Action Plan, which advises treating ethnic minorities differently to improve outcomes. Critics argue this guidance influenced the arrest of Nowak while he was dying. NPCC chairman Gavin Stephens said the intent was to improve policing quality but acknowledged concerns about wording.
Two people were arrested for assaulting police and possession of a weapon after hundreds gathered outside Southampton Central Police Station. Far-right activist Tommy Robinson and actor Laurence Fox addressed the crowd. Demonstrators chanted "Henry, Henry" as bricks, chairs, cans, and flares were thrown at riot police, forcing them to retreat.
Body-Worn Camera Footage
In footage from the night of the stabbing on December 3, 2025, a handcuffed Nowak can be heard saying, "I've been stabbed," to which an officer replied, "Don't think you have, mate." Digwa, 23, was sentenced to life with a minimum of 21 years for murder. The knife was a kirpan, carried as part of his Sikh faith; he had been investigated in 2023 for stealing similar blades from a temple but faced no action.
Police Under Scrutiny
Hampshire Police reported death threats against an officer misidentified online. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said he felt sick watching the footage and demanded answers on how accusations of racism influenced police decisions. The police watchdog, IOPC, is investigating and is expected to report within three months. One officer involved has resigned; three others remain on duty as witnesses.
Nowak's father, Mark Nowak, reiterated the family's plea: "We do not want his death to be used to create further division, hatred or tension." However, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage called for "pure cold rage" over Nowak's treatment, alleging a "two-tier culture" where a racial slur was taken more seriously than murder.
