A drive-by shooter has been jailed for 33 years after killing a teenager in Birmingham. Seeraj Ayub, 25, fatally shot 19-year-old Ali Riyan on Alderson Road, Washwood Heath, at around 10.15pm on October 19, 2024.
Attack on e-bike riders
Riyan was travelling on an e-bike when he was struck by gunfire. He was taken to hospital but died from his injuries two days later. Investigators reviewed extensive CCTV footage to identify the perpetrator.
Detectives spotted Ayub in a black Mercedes tailing Riyan and a companion on an e-bike moments before the attack. The duo had stopped on Alderson Road when the Mercedes drew up beside them and Ayub discharged his weapon through the passenger window.
Arrest and conviction
Riyan attempted to flee, but the vehicle pursued them and Ayub fired once more, striking the victim. The assailant fled the country that same evening. He was apprehended upon his return to the UK via ferry from Dublin on January 28 last year.
Despite declining to provide comment during police questioning, Ayub was charged with murder. Ayub, from Alexander Road, Birmingham, was convicted of murdering Riyan last November at Birmingham Crown Court.
Sentence and police response
He received his sentence at the same court on October 16 to 33 years' imprisonment. West Midlands Police senior investigating officer, Jenny Birch, said: "I hope this verdict brings some peace to his family."
Birch added: "Our team worked tirelessly on this case. I am pleased we have been able to secure justice for Ali and his family."
