Smethwick ‘stabbing’ sees a number of injured close to mosque as police say ‘get again inside’

Multiple people have been injured following a suspected stabbing outside a mosque in a West Midlands street as police warned people to “get back inside”

A murder investigation is now underway after a teenager died following trouble outside Oldbury Jamia Masjid in Smethwick during Ramadan on Friday (February 20) night.

Police were called to disorder outside the mosque at around 9pm and found an 18-year-old with serious injuries following a ‘stabbing’, who later died, reports Birmingham Live.

Two other men, aged 19 and 22, were reportedly injured in the incident and taken to hospital for further treatment.

A worshipper has described the moment they were told to get back inside the mosque following a fatal stabbing outside.

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The 52-year-old said: ”We were inside for prayer, the Taraweeh Namaz, when we came out and saw all the people here. It was all men, ambulances and police.

“The police said ‘go back inside the mosque.’ They sealed it off and the police said we could walk out but we couldn’t get our cars. It was roughly around 9.40pm.

“We were very panicked, we were shocked. I walked home last night. I came here today and they (the police) said to give my mobile number and when everything is open, they would let me know.”

A spokesperson for West Midlands Police said: “A murder investigation is underway after a teenager has tragically died after being stabbed in Smethwick.

“We were called following disorder outside a mosque on Oldbury Road at just before 9pm yesterday (20 February).

“An 18-year-old man was found with serious injuries and tragically died. Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this devastating time.

“Two other men – aged 19 and 22 – were taken to hospital although their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

“At this stage, the incident is not being treated as religiously or racially aggravated but we’re working to establish the full circumstances and who was involved.

“We’re reviewing CCTV and carrying out other enquiries in the area.

“We would urge witnesses or people with information, including mobile phone or dashcam footage, to please contact us on 101 quoting log number 4896 of 20 February. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

“We understand how deeply distressing and concerning this incident is and we will have extra officers in the area over the coming days to offer reassurance to the community.”

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