University News Last updated 21 March
When 82-year-old Mohammed Saleem was fatally stabbed in Birmingham in 2013, it led to a counter terrorism investigation that placed the spotlight firmly on Islamophobia in the UK.
In an episode of Channel 5’s ‘Killer at the Crime Scene’ series, which aired this week, Professor Imran Awan reflects on the case and its significance for Birmingham’s Muslim community.
“Mr Saleem was a Muslim with a visible identity,” said Professor Awan.
“Most people believe this was not a spontaneous attack but a premeditated one.
“It’s a hate crime ultimately, and the climate at the time was very hostile and Islamophobic.”
Following the investigation, Pavlo Lapshyn pleaded guilty to the murder of Saleem, who was making his way home from his local mosque in Small Heath when he was attacked.
He died on 29 April, less than a week after Lapshyn had arrived in the UK from Ukraine, where he was known for his racist and neo-Nazi activity.
Sentenced to 40 years, Lapshyn was also found guilty of plotting to cause explosions near mosques in Walsall, Tipton and Wolverhampton.
“This case highlights the need for local, informal mechanisms that work to tackle bigotry, prejudice and hatred,” said Professor Awan.
“We need bystanders to feel safe to intervene and act within local communities to ensure people of all faiths and backgrounds feel safer in local communities.”
The documentary is available to watch at www.channel5.com or by clicking this link: 5 - Killer at the Crime Scene - Season 4 - Episode 4 / Mohammed Saleem