Killers of West Ham season ticket holder were cowards
In a statement, the family said: “How many more have to die this way before everyone cares? How many more communities like ours have to be terrorised by mindless stabbings? Sami was a model son, model student, a dedicated West Ham fan who was studying to be a lawyer to bring fair play and justice to those who needed it. He never had a chance to do any of that because he was stabbed in the back by cowards in the dark. He was only 18.
“It is shameful that a single knife is allowed on the street. There isn’t a single fathomable reason why this is still tolerated, unchecked and unstopped. Those who are responsible for enforcing the banning of knives in our streets are also responsible for his death.
“Someone once said evil triumphs when good people do nothing.
“Nothing will bring Sami back, but we want his killers brought to justice. We would like to appeal to everyone, if you have any information no matter how small it is please do tell the police.
“We would like to thank everyone who came to Sami’s aid and comforted him in his final hour. We are deeply grateful for the incredible kindness and bravery that our neighbours, regardless of their creed, or colour, have shown to Sami”
Supporters will remember Sami this Sunday at the London Stadium with a planned one-minute applause on the 18-minute mark.
Police arrested a 22-year-old on Monday on suspicion of murder but he was released on bail yesterday pending further inquiries.