Yahoo News 'Senseless tragedy' on city streets condemned by police as teen murderer jailed
A police officer has condemned the “senseless tragedy” which led to one youngster’s death at the hands of his teenage murderer.
Armin Mehdikhani-Sarvejahani “plunged” a knife into Mustafa Momand over a drug debt, leaving him to run for his life before collapsing in the street.
Now, as the 16-year-old murderer is finally named publicly and sentenced, Sussex Police officers have commended all those who tried to help Mustafa.
DCI Alex Campbell, from the force’s major crimes team, said: “Mustafa Momand’s murder was a senseless tragedy and I would once again like to express my sincere condolences towards his family and loved ones.
Armin Mehdikhani-Sarvejahani (Image: Sussex Police)
“I know the events of October 5, 2023 also had a profound impact on the community of Brighton and Hove. Mustafa’s death prompted an outpouring of grief and I would like to thank the public, witnesses and community partners for their support and understanding throughout this investigation.
“I would also like to commend the initial responders and investigative team for their diligent work to bring Mustafa’s killer to justice.
“With court proceedings now concluded, it is right that Mustafa’s family and loved ones are given the privacy and space they need to come to terms with their devastating loss.”
Mehdikhani-Sarvejahani, of Butts Road in Southwick, was jailed for at least 17 years today after ramming a large kitchen knife into Mustafa’s chest in October last year.
The teen killer can now be named after an anonymity order was lifted by the court.
Mustafa Momand (Image: Sussex Police)
The murderer was found two and a half miles away from the scene in Bevendean covered in his victim’s blood.
Mr Justice Constable KC said while sentencing him that the case “serves as a stark reminder” of the reality of drug dealing and knife crime.
Sussex Police Chief Inspector Jim Loader said: “Time and again, across the country, we see the heartbreaking consequences of carrying a knife.
“Mustafa Momand – a child - has tragically lost his life. His family and loved ones must live with his loss for the rest of theirs. His killer, a 16-year-old boy, will enter adulthood inside a prison cell.
“It is these tragedies that underpin our commitment to doing all we can to tackle knife crime. That means tirelessly engaging with young people to educate them on the dangers as early as possible, steering them away from crime and carrying out enforcement action to target perpetrators and take robust action.
“Any knife on the streets is one too many, but figures show knife offences in Sussex are well below the national average. Sussex is a safe place.
“To those that feel you need to carry a knife - you are putting yourself and others in danger. It’s not worth the risk or the consequences.”
