A teenage boy has been handed a life sentence with a minimum term of 19 years for what a judge described as the "execution" of 17-year-old Abdul Xasan in a quiet Manchester neighbourhood.
The shocking incident occurred on December 10, 2023, when the 17-year-old defendant, who cannot be named for legal reasons, gunned down his victim in what prosecutors called a "targeted and ruthless" attack.
A Community in Shock
Residents of the normally peaceful neighbourhood described hearing multiple gunshots followed by screams as the victim collapsed on the pavement. Emergency services rushed to the scene but despite their efforts, Abdul was pronounced dead at the location.
Detective Chief Inspector, who led the investigation, stated: "This was a cold-blooded killing that has left a family devastated and a community living in fear. The calculated nature of this attack is particularly disturbing."
Justice Served After Intensive Investigation
Following a thorough police investigation and trial at Manchester Crown Court, the teenage defendant was found guilty of murder and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life.
During sentencing, Mr Justice Smith told the defendant: "You carried out what can only be described as an execution in broad daylight, showing complete disregard for human life and the safety of the public."
Impact on the Community
The victim's family released an emotional statement describing Abdul as "a loving son with his whole life ahead of him" whose future was "stolen in the most cruel way imaginable."
Local community leaders have called for increased youth intervention programmes and stronger measures to combat knife and gun crime among young people in the area.
Greater Manchester Police have reassured residents that they continue to work tirelessly to remove dangerous weapons from the streets and bring those responsible for violent crimes to justice.
