Fundraiser for Teen Stabbed Outside Mosque During Ramadan Surpasses £9,000
A fundraiser established in memory of a teenager who was stabbed to death outside a mosque during the holy month of Ramadan has successfully raised more than £9,000 in donations. The campaign honors Zeshan Afzal, an 18-year-old who tragically lost his life following a violent incident on Oldbury Road in Smethwick.
Tragic Incident and Community Response
Zeshan Afzal was discovered with severe stab injuries at approximately 9pm on Friday, February 20, and was pronounced deceased shortly afterward. In the wake of this heartbreaking event, a GoFundMe page was swiftly created to provide support for his family and loved ones, quickly garnering widespread community backing.
The fundraising page includes a poignant statement that reads, "This Ramadan, a month of mercy, forgiveness, and immense reward, we were tested in the most heartbreaking way. Our beloved brother was tragically taken from us during this sacred month." It further describes Zeshan as a cherished son, brother, and friend whose kindness and laughter profoundly impacted all who knew him.
Purpose of the Fundraiser
The funds are being collected as sadaqah jariyah, a form of ongoing charity in Islamic tradition believed to generate continuous rewards for the deceased. The statement emphasizes, "We are raising funds in his name to serve as sadaqah jariyah — a source of continuous reward for him in his grave and a means of light for him in the Hereafter." Donors are encouraged to contribute, regardless of the amount, as an act of charity during Ramadan, when spiritual rewards are considered multiplied.
To date, the campaign has accumulated £9,068 in just four days, reflecting an outpouring of support from the community.
Police Investigation and Arrest
West Midlands Police are actively investigating the stabbing incident. Authorities have confirmed that a 17-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the case. The teenager remains in custody for questioning as part of the ongoing enquiry.
A police spokesperson stated, "Zeshan Afzal, aged 18, was discovered with serious stab wounds following disorder on Oldbury Road just before 9pm on 20 February. He was sadly pronounced dead a short time later. Our enquiries are continuing and we urge anyone who has not yet spoken to us to come forward."
Investigators are appealing for witnesses or individuals with relevant information, including mobile phone or dash cam footage, to contact them via the provided channels to assist in the case.
