Hunt for murder weapon continues

10:53pm Wednesday 12th March 2008

POLICE investigating the killing of a father-of seven have renewed appeals for help to find a murder weapon.

A detailed search of Thompson Park, Burnley, including the draining of a lake has failed to discover a metal bar and a blade which officers believe were used in the murder of Mohammed Shafiq.

Police said no one else is being sought in connection with the murder after four men were charged following the attack in the park last week.

Mr Shafiq, of York Street, Nelson, died after he was stabbed in the stomach and hit over the head with a blunt instrument on March 4.

The 50-year-old was taken to the Royal Blackburn Hospital following the incident on Tuesday afternoon but died later that day.

Following the attack police have conducted a thorough search of Thompson Park.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil Hunter said: "We have not recovered any weapons so if anyone has any information we would be keen to speak to them.

"We have searched the park and the scene and they are not there.

"We are continuing our inquiries in relation to the recovery of the weapons and taking statements from witnesses.

"The response we have had shows that we have the full support of the community."

The family of Mr Shafiq are hoping to hold a funeral in the next few days at the at the Ghosia Jamia Mosque, in Every Street, Nelson.

Final tests and the post mortem examination were due to be completed yesterday and the family are hoping the body will be released shortly.

An inquest into Mr Shafiq's death will be opened today.

Police have charged four people following the murder.

Mohammad Bilal Baktti, of Holcombe Drive, 20, and a 16-year-old who cannot be named for legal reasons were remanded in custody after being charged with murder at Burnley Magistrates court last Friday.

Both have also been accused of violent disorder in connection with the death of Mr Shafiq, of York Street, Nelson.

Omar Khalid of Fairfield Drive, Burnley and Mohammed Shahdab Akhtar of Scott Park Road, Burnley, both 19, have been charged with violent disorder.

Any one who witnessed the attack or has any information about the murder weapon can contact Burnley police on 01282 425001.