Independent review announced into murder of student Henry Nowak

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has announced an independent review into the murder of 18-year-old student Henry Nowak, focusing on what authorities knew about his killer and whether there were opportunities to intervene before the fatal stabbing in Southampton.

Mahmood told the House of Commons on Monday that the review would examine what happened before, during and after the killing, including how Nowak’s family were treated afterwards. It will be led by former Lord Chancellor Alex Chalk KC.

Nowak was stabbed to death in December 2025. His killer, Vickrum Digwa, was sentenced to life imprisonment on 1 June, with a minimum term of 21 years. The BBC reports that Digwa falsely claimed he had been racially abused and had acted in self-defence.

Police body-worn camera footage showing officers handcuffing Nowak as he lay dying drew intense scrutiny of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary. The case also prompted wider debate about knife laws, race, policing and public trust.