A man has been sentenced to life in prison for fatally stabbing a university student in Southampton. Vickrum Digwa, 23, attacked 18-year-old Henry Nowak from Essex, stabbing him multiple times on Belmont Road. Prior to the incident, Digwa falsely claimed he was a victim of a racist assault.
Digwa, who was captured on video confessing, “I am a bad man,” before the murder, alleged that Henry racially abused him and initiated a physical altercation. Despite Digwa’s self-defense claim, he was convicted of murder and carrying a bladed weapon in public. His mother, Kiran Kaur, was also found guilty of aiding Digwa by removing the weapon from the scene.
During the sentencing at Southampton Crown Court, Digwa received a life sentence with a minimum term of 21 years. Tensions rose in court as outbursts occurred between Digwa’s supporters and the victim’s family and friends.
Elon Musk offered to fund a private prosecution against the police in response to the incident. The Independent Office for Police Conduct is investigating the circumstances surrounding the case.
Henry’s family expressed profound grief over the loss of their son. Mark Nowak, Henry’s father, emphasized the devastating impact of the tragedy, stating that not knowing the full details of that night tormented him. Olivia, Henry’s sister, addressed Digwa directly in court, highlighting the close bond she shared with her brother.
Prosecutor Nicholas Lobbenberg KC revealed that Digwa had a history of weapon training and displayed a concerning fondness for knives. Despite legal allowances for Sikhs to carry kirpan knives, Digwa’s possession of multiple blades raised concerns.
Mark Nowak called for a thorough investigation into the police’s handling of the case, criticizing the treatment his son received. He emphasized the need for transparency and justice in the aftermath of the tragedy, stating that Digwa bore full responsibility for the murder.
The family’s plea for truth and accountability resonated as they sought closure and justice for Henry’s untimely death.