Newly released bodyworn camera footage reveals murderer Vickrum Digwa, 23, lying to police officers about being racially attacked moments after fatally stabbing student Henry Nowak. Digwa was jailed for life with a minimum of 20 years for the murder, which sparked riots in Southampton.
Digwa's False Claims to Police
In the footage, Digwa falsely claimed that Nowak had racially abused him and knocked his turban off, leading officers to arrest and handcuff the 18-year-old student before they noticed his fatal injuries. Digwa told officers that Nowak's bloody wounds were from a “punch” or because he “fell over” while climbing on bins. He alleged Nowak was “obviously drunk” and had attacked him.
Digwa's Father Intervenes
Digwa's father, Moga Singh, can be heard telling police: “My son’s just been assaulted. The gentleman that’s on the floor assaulted my son.” Digwa added: “He pushed my turban off my head and started grabbing my hair. So I’m a Sikh, obviously, and he started grabbing my hair and dragging me around.” He claimed his brother stopped the altercation and that Nowak then stumbled and fell.
Police Response
When Digwa complained about being “racially attacked” during his arrest, an officer responded: “I know, I know, I know.” When asked how Nowak got his wound, Digwa said: “It must have been when we punched him. Must have been when we punched him. But he did fall over here, so he was climbing all over these bins and stuff like that and then he’s fell over and landed on to that car.”
Arrest and Sentencing
Upon arrest for attempted murder, Digwa pleaded: “What do you mean ‘attempted murder’? Why am I getting arrested?” The arresting officer noted Digwa had “his side of the story” but that police needed to investigate, adding: “I’m not saying you’ve done anything, mate.” At sentencing, Judge William Mousley KC stated: “I am sure that Henry had said nothing racist. You are the only person to make that claim and it is completely at odds with his previous character.”
Prosecution Evidence
Prosecution evidence showed footage from before police arrival with Digwa’s turban on his head, suggesting he removed it to appear as the victim. Nowak had recorded Digwa after seeing him carrying an eight-inch Sikh ceremonial blade; that footage remains unreleased.
Consequences
Digwa's lies led to Nowak being handcuffed while dying, with Nowak exclaiming “I can’t breathe.” The false accusation of racism sparked violence in Southampton, resulting in 25 rioters charged with violent disorder. Hampshire Constabulary is under investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct over the arrest.
