Independent review announced into murder of student Henry Nowak
The UK Home Secretary has announced an independent review into the 2025 murder of student Henry Nowak in Southampton. The review will examine potential missed opportunities by authorities and the treatment of the victim's family within the justice system.
Why it matters
The case has sparked significant public debate regarding knife crime, policing standards, and institutional accountability in the UK.
Image source, Handout Image caption, Henry Nowak was 18 when he was stabbed to death in Southampton in December 2025
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has announced an independent review into the murder of Henry Nowak.
The 18-year-old student was fatally stabbed in Southampton in December by Vickrum Digwa, who falsely claimed he had been racially abused and had acted in self-defence. Digwa was jailed for life on 1 June, with a minimum term of 21 years.
Following the teenager's murder, police bodycam footage of him being handcuffed as he lay dying led to intense scrutiny of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary and sparked wider debates around knife laws, race, policing and public trust.
The review, which was welcomed by Nowak's family, will be led by former Justice Secretary Alex Chalk KC.
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