Sir Keir Starmer has said bodycam footage of police handcuffing a dying teenager raises “serious questions” about whether racism influenced the arrest, as violent protests erupted in Southampton.
The Prime Minister said he “felt sick” watching the footage of 18-year-old Henry Nowak being restrained moments before he died after being fatally stabbed by Vickrum Digwa last December. The video, which was released last week, shows officers handcuffing Nowak as he lay on the ground pleading for help.
“Sir Keir Starmer says the arrest of Henry Nowak, handcuffed as he lay dying, raises serious questions for police, as violent protests erupt in Southampton.”
Starmer told reporters that the case must be properly investigated, adding: “There are serious questions for the police about how accusations of racism informed decision making in this case.” He stressed that Nowak’s murder “must not be used to create hatred or division”.
Hundreds of protesters gathered outside Southampton police station on Monday evening, with crowds marching towards the Portswood area. Demonstrators threw chairs, cones, bricks, flares and bikes at riot police, with some officers sustaining minor injuries. Chants of “F***ing scum” were directed at the police lines.
The Home Secretary described the disorder as “completely unacceptable”. Police said they were tracking British far‑right agitators who were believed to have helped fuel the unrest. The far‑right activist Tommy Robinson has posted videos about the case, and his online following is thought to have mobilised some of the protesters.
The force at the centre of the controversy – Hampshire Constabulary – has faced scrutiny over its approach to diversity and inclusion. Some critics have alleged that a “cult of diversity and inclusion” within the force has undermined proper policing, though the force has not commented on that claim.
The clashes mark the second night of protests in the city after the footage emerged. Police have said they will maintain a visible presence in the area and are reviewing body‑worn camera footage from the night of the incident.
Nowak’s family has called for calm and urged the public not to allow his death to be exploited by those seeking to sow division. A murder trial for Vickrum Digwa is expected to proceed later this year.
What This Means For You: The case has inflamed public debate about policing and racial bias. For the wider public, it raises questions about trust in police use of force, particularly when dealing with victims of violent crime. Home Office officials are monitoring the situation, and any institutional failings identified could lead to changes in police training and accountability procedures.
Residents of Southampton face continued disruption as protests may continue. Police have urged anyone with information about the disorder to come forward. The case also serves as a reminder that even tragic deaths can be co‑opted by extremist groups seeking to stoke division.