A manhunt is underway for Habibur Masum, a 25-year-old individual from Oldham with links to Burnley, following the tragic stabbing death of Kulsuma Akter, 27, also from Oldham. The incident occurred on Westgate in Bradford city centre at the junction with Drewton Road at 3:21 pm on Saturday. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Kulsuma succumbed to her injuries. Of utmost relief is the fact that Kulsuma’s young baby, who was with her during the incident, remained unharmed.
West Yorkshire Police Officer Assistant Chief Constable Damien Miller assured the public that significant resources are being deployed for the investigation, including extensive CCTV and house-to-house inquiries. Local Bradford officers have increased patrols in the area to provide reassurance to residents. In collaboration with other forces, raids have been conducted in Burnley, Oldham, and Chester areas in search of Masum. During these raids, a 23-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and is currently in police custody.
Masum and Kulsuma are known to each other, according to West Yorkshire Police. The search for Masum is ongoing, with the last known sighting captured on CCTV as he boarded a bus at Market Street in Bradford city centre at 3:30 pm on Saturday. His last known location was on Killinghall Road, heading towards Bradford Moor Park, at 3:42 pm. Masum is described as Asian, slim build, and was last seen wearing a duffle coat with distinctive features, light blue or grey tracksuit bottoms, and maroon trainers. Witnesses also reported seeing him wearing a grey hoodie with the hood up. Masum has connections to Burnley and Chester.
A 23-year-old man has been arrested in Cheshire on suspicion of assisting an offender and remains in police custody. In light of prior police contact with Kulsuma before her death, West Yorkshire Police has referred itself to the Independent Office of Police Conduct for investigation.
Detective Chief Inspector Stacey Atkinson of West Yorkshire Police’s Homicide and Enquiry Team expressed profound sadness over the tragic incident, emphasizing the urgent need to locate Masum. The community’s concerns are acknowledged, with local Neighbourhood Policing teams conducting patrols to reassure residents. Any sightings of Masum should be reported to the police immediately via 999, while information that could assist the investigation can be reported via Live Chat online, by calling 101, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, quoting log 1071 of April 6.
The tragic loss of Kulsuma Akter has deeply impacted the community, prompting an urgent response from law enforcement to bring the perpetrator to justice. The swift and thorough investigation underway underscores the commitment of West Yorkshire Police to ensure the safety and security of all residents.
Absolutely, the cooperation of the public is indispensable in apprehending individuals like Masum who pose a threat to public safety. By coming forward with any relevant information they may have, community members play a vital role in aiding law enforcement efforts and ensuring that justice is served.
Moreover, incidents such as this tragic stabbing serve as poignant reminders of the ongoing need for concerted efforts to address and prevent violence in our communities. It highlights the importance of fostering environments where individuals feel safe and supported, and where conflicts can be resolved peacefully through dialogue and mediation.
Community engagement, education, and outreach programs are essential tools in building safer and more resilient communities. By promoting understanding, empathy, and respect for one another, we can work together to create environments where violence is not tolerated and where individuals can thrive free from fear.
It is incumbent upon all of us to remain vigilant and proactive in our efforts to prevent violence and support victims and survivors. By working together, we can create a safer and more peaceful society for all.