The trial of a man accused of murdering a father-of-11 continues today at Cardiff Crown Court. Mujeeb Hassani, 40, denies murdering Ibrahim Yassin, 64, who died after being stabbed at his home in Butetown, Cardiff, on February 18, 2024.
Day One Recap
On day one, the jury heard from the prosecution that both Hassani and Mr Yassin were seen at the Butetown Islamic Centre on the morning of the incident. Later that morning, Mr Yassin was stabbed at his home in Belmont Walk, sustaining wounds to virtually all parts of his body, including severe neck wounds.
The prosecution alleged Hassani ran off and was captured on CCTV running down Bute Street, holding a knife wrapped in a pink towel. He attempted to get into a vehicle driven by Anette Watkins, who had her grandson in the car, but could not open the door as the child lock was in operation. He then approached a coach driver for help before being arrested on James Street.
Mental Health Concerns
The court heard that Hassani had been detained under the Mental Health Act prior to the incident but was released on February 15, 2024, despite concerns from consultant psychiatrist Dr Matthew Hoskins, who told a mental health tribunal that the defendant posed a risk to himself and others and had 'poor compliance' with taking medication.
Mr Yassin was a caretaker at the South Wales Islamic Centre in Butetown and was described by his family as a "cherished father, deeply adored by his children" and a "generous and compassionate pillar of the community".
Day Two Proceedings
Today, Detective Constable Stephen Jenkins continues to give evidence about a video presentation. CCTV footage shows Hassani leaving his home at 7.11am, returning to Bute Street at 7.23am, and loitering at a bus stop for an hour before walking towards Cardiff city centre.
Hassani appeared via video link from Ashworth High Secure Hospital in Liverpool. Judge Tracey Lloyd-Clarke advised that the trial might extend into next week.
