Twin brothers Athif and Althaf Hussaindeen have been jailed for their roles in the tragic stabbing death of 16-year-old Ashraf Habimana during a fight in Luton, UK. The incident occurred on September 29, 2023, when Ashraf was not involved in the initial altercation with friends in a car park around 7 p.m.
The clash erupted between two groups of teenagers, one of which included Athif and Althaf Hussaindeen, both now 18. Earlier that day, Athif had been injured in a separate fight on Runfold Avenue. The conflict escalated significantly, leading several teenagers to arrive armed with knives.
CCTV footage captured Althaf Hussaindeen assaulting Ashraf, who was then stabbed in the back three times by Athif. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Ashraf succumbed to his injuries shortly after. The footage also showed Athif stabbing another 16-year-old, who survived the attack.
After fleeing the scene, the twin brothers were arrested and charged with murder by Bedfordshire Police. In March, Athif Hussaindeen was found guilty of murder, attempted murder, violent disorder, and possession of a bladed article, while Althaf was convicted of manslaughter and violent disorder.
At Luton Crown Court, Athif was jailed for life with a minimum of 24 years, while Althaf was jailed for seven years. During the sentencing, the judge noted that “Ashraf was unarmed and tried to do nothing but try to get away from the scene” when he was attacked.
In a heartfelt statement, Ashraf’s parents expressed their grief: “On 29 September 2023, my loving, caring, calm and extraordinary son was senselessly robbed of his life. Ashraf was a good friend, a son, and a brother loved by his family, friends, and all those who knew him.” They announced the creation of the Ashraf Habimana Foundation to raise awareness about knife crime, emphasising their slogan: “Don’t destroy a life, destroy the knife.”
At Ashraf’s memorial, 200 friends and family gathered to celebrate his life, sharing memories and poetry in his honour.
Additionally, three other individuals have been jailed in connection with the case. Timone Crossman, 18, was found guilty of violent disorder and possession of a bladed article, receiving an 18-month prison sentence. Two other 16-year-olds received sentences for their involvement in violent disorder and possession of knives.
Detective Inspector Graham Newton, who led the investigation, remarked on the case’s tragedy, stating, “This is a sad case that has cost a young boy his life and left another with life-threatening injuries.” He noted that the fight, a post-school scuffle, spiralled out of control after videos circulated on social media. Newton cautioned that “knives destroy lives,” highlighting the severe consequences of such violence.
