Mohammed Algasim’s family hopes his passing will lead to a serious look at public safety
The relatives of a student fatally stabbed in Cambridge last Friday have said they no longer feel the UK is safe.
Mohammed Algasim, 20, was staying in Cambridge for a 10-week placement at EF International Language Campus, which teaches English to international students in the city. On Friday 1st August around 11:30 pm, Mohammed suffered stab wounds to his neck and died right there despite doctors nearby trying to save him. Police in Cambridgeshire say this was an “unprovoked attack”.
A local man named Chas Corrigan, aged 21, has been charged with murder and is set to go on trial next year.
The incident happened at Mill Park, close to Cambridge’s main train station. This area has recently been redeveloped with large modern apartments where many international students and professionals live.
Abdulmalik Algasim, Mohammed’s cousin, shared that their view of safety in England has changed. He said: “unfortunately the view has shifted to Britain not being a safe country”.
His uncle, Majed Abalkhail, told The National he thinks the UK isn’t safe anymore for tourists either. Mr Albalkhail added: “We hope this incident will prompt serious reflection on public safety and the protection of innocent lives.”
He went on: “He had dreams of studying medicine and came to the UK with a heart full of hope and a passion for learning. Unfortunately, his journey ended in tragedy. His family and community are devastated by this horrific loss.”
The security company Dardan that works on this CB1 estate has doubled its overnight staff to four since the stabbing happened. A statement from CB1 Community Group aimed to reassure residents that security efforts have increased during evenings and overnight hours.
Mohammed was from Saudi Arabia. His close family from Makkah mentioned he used to generously help new Saudi students moving to England.
“For Saudis who were coming to Cambridge, he started to help them out with the paperwork process regarding the college and make sure some of them are safe. He used to be a kind of mentor and look after people’s safety. Mohammed was a friend to everyone,” his cousin said.
After Mohammed’s death, EF International Language Campuses Cambridge put out a statement saying: “The safety and wellbeing of our students is our top priority. We are providing support to all students and staff affected by this tragic event and have organised counselling sessions.”
Featured image via Cambridge Constabulary
