Two arrested after ‘hardworking peacemaker’ stabbed to death outside prayer centre

Two men have been arrested on suspicion of murder after a restaurant manager was stabbed to death outside a Muslim prayer centre. 

The victim, named locally as Dara Sayed Barham, 22, had been left dying on the pavement just yards from his workplace on Hanworth Road, west London on Sunday afternoon. 

Paramedics and locals battled to save him but he died from his wounds. 

Two men, aged 27 and 37 were arrested and have been remanded in custody. 

Kavan Soleman, Dara’s best friend who rushed to his hospital bedside, told Metro: ‘He would help anyone and do anything for anyone. 

‘I’m devastated he was such a good, hardworking person. He is Kurdish like me. His family are there. I can’t believe he has gone.’

He claimed Metro that Dara was knifed as he tried to break up a fight as a ‘peacemaker’.

A police statement said: ‘A 22-year-old man was treated for stab wounds before being taken to hospital where he sadly later died. His next of kin are being supported by specialist officers.

‘Two men, aged 27 and 37, were arrested on suspicion of murder on Monday, 23 June.

‘They remain in custody for questioning.’

Superintendent James Rawlinsin said: ‘We are aware of the effect this horrendous incident has had on the local community, and have designated officers on reassurance patrols, to answer questions that you may have.

‘As is stands, we maintain that though the incident took place outside the Hounslow Muslim Centre, there is nothing to suggest a link to the venue.

‘Our thoughts, as always, remain with the family and friends of the victim at this incredibly difficult time.’ 

Farhan Ali, who runs a mobile phone store near the restaurant where the victim worked, described him as ‘just a wonderful guy’ who had recently bought a phone from him to use to send home to his Kurdish family.

Farhan told Metro: ‘I’m in shock, he was a wonderful guy, my best customer. He bought a phone he had been saving up for from me. He said he wanted to use the camera to send a picture home to his mother. He was such a peaceful guy he was the best person.’

Anyone who can assist the investigation team is asked to call 101.