Update following the death of Zeshan Afzal in Smethwick

We’ve made further arrests and a charge following the death of Zeshan Afzal in Smethwick.

Zeshan, 18, died after being stabbed on Oldbury Road on 20 February.

Our investigation is continuing at pace, and our thoughts remain with Zeshan’s family.

Yesterday, we charged a 17-year-old boy, who can’t be named because of his age, with murder.

He has been remanded in custody to appear before Birmingham Magistrates Court today.

Since Zeshan’s death we have charged a total of seven teenagers with murder.

A further three teenagers, a 13-year-old boy and two 17-year-old boys, have been arrested this morning on suspicion of murder. They remain in custody for questioning.

This remains an active investigation, and we are still appealing for anyone with information or footage to please get in touch.

You can contact us on 101 quoting log number 4896 of 20 February. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 55511.

You can continue to submit mobile phone or dash cam footage here.