Police name murder suspect as victim Zakariyya Islam’s family appeals for privacy

A man appeared at Thames Magistrates’ Court this morning (17th September) to answer the charge that he murdered 45-year-old local father of three Zakariyya Islam. He was remanded in custody and is due to appear at the Old Bailey at 10am on Monday, 21st September.

The murder took place at an address in Greatorex Street, E1, in the early evening of Monday, 14th September. The victim was stabbed in the upper body and, despite the best efforts of paramedics, died at the scene.

The man charged with murder has been named as 43 year old Ashfav Choudry, (date of birth 29.07.72) of Kensington Avenue, Watford, Hertfordshire. He was charged on Wednesday, 16 September – just two days after the incident. He had been arrested at the scene and was originally taken to hospital for treatment for an injury to his hand, before being taken to an East London police station. He has been in custody since his arrest.

A minute’s silence was held at the Council meeting on Wednesday, 16th September as a mark of respect for Mr Islam.

The family of the victim have released the following statement.

Family statement regarding the murder of Zakariyya Islam
We the family of Zakariyya Islam have been devastated by the shocking news of his unprovoked murder on the evening of 14th September. The perpetrator has been arrested and formally charged for murder. We now wait for the trial and trust that justice will prevail although nothing can replace the deep loss and suffering of family and friends due to this heinous crime.

Zakariyya Islam aged 45, a faith counsellor and therapist from Tower Hamlets, leaves behind a young family and was loved for his many years of selfless service to the community.

As the murder investigation is ongoing, we request members of the press and others to respect our privacy and give us time and space as we grieve at this very difficult time. We would like to thank the community for the overwhelming outpouring of support and condolences.

17 September 2015

Related post:
https://eastlondonnews.co.uk/arrest-made-in-greatorex-street-murder/

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