Southampton student Henry Nowak's death fuels UK police criticism and protests

Eighteen‑year‑old student Henry Nowak was stabbed in Southampton and, while gravely injured, was mistakenly treated by police as the attacker. Body‑camera footage captured his pleas – “I was stabbed, I can’t breathe” – and a police officer’s dismissive reply, “I don’t think so.” The video sparked nationwide outrage over police conduct.

The incident led to large‑scale protests in Southampton, where demonstrators clashed with officers, threw objects and shouted slogans. Far‑right figures such as Tommy Robinson and UKIP leader Nick Tenconi addressed the crowd, condemning the police response. Meanwhile, 23‑year‑old Vickrum Digwa, who misled officers into believing he was the assailant, received a life sentence.

The controversy has intensified calls for independent investigations into the handling of Nowak’s death and broader scrutiny of UK policing practices.