UK police review race guidance after Henry Nowak murder sparks controversy

Teenager Henry Nowak was stabbed to death in Southampton, and the police response was criticised for a cursory examination and a failure to treat his claim of being stabbed with urgency. Former Metropolitan officers said the officers' apprehension about alleged racism may have affected their judgment.

The National Police Chiefs' Council announced a review of its race guidance following intense scrutiny of the 2022 Police Race Action Plan. The move comes amid political pressure, with Reform UK leader Nigel Farage urging "pure cold rage" and commenting on a "two‑tier justice system," while Labour and Conservative figures warn of the case's impact on upcoming elections. Henry’s father, Mark Nowak, said, "this is not a case about racism. This is a case about murder," and asked that his son’s death not be used to fuel division.