Video: Mohammed Walait pays tribute to his grandson
The grandfather of Aqib Mazhar has spoken of his family’s anguish after the 21-year-old was stabbed to death in Forest Fields.
Witnesses have described how people fought in vain to save Aqib’s life after he was attacked on Russell Road on Wednesday evening.
Three men have been arrested on suspicion of murder.
So hard to explain what we’ve lost
Mr Walait told Notts TV News: “He was a working lad, he would just go about his business, he never really bothered anyone or had been in any trouble before.
“He was a very friendly sort of chap, he always got along with his family, with his brothers and sister have never had any problems with him – it’s just one of those unfortunate things that this incident has happened.
“It’s very difficult to even come around to terms that we have lost someone. To replace his life is very difficult. It’s so hard to explain what we’ve lost.”
Jamia Masjid Sultania mosque, Sneinton Dale, announced news of Aqib’s death in a post on its Facebook page on Thursday.
It read: “Brother Aqib Mazhar has sadly passed away last night after an incident in Forest Fields. Please make dua (prayers) for his soul and for his family.”
Mr Walait also thanked the community for their support for him and his family.
Picture: The area was cordoned off while forensics teams examined the scene
He added: “We used to see him daily, he came round and saw his aunties, now you don’t see him for a day or two, you can imagine.
“If you don’t see one person, we’re such a close family at the moment, and always have been with the children, to miss one out is like losing your right arm.”
Notts Police revealed earlier on Friday more than 80 officers are working on the case.
A force spokesman added in a statement: “Neighbourhood officers have been in contact with mosques and local religious leaders and would like to thank local communities and the public generally for their co-operation with this ongoing investigation.”
Officers are asking for anyone with information to contact them on 101 or alternatively Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
