Zeshan Afzal Murder: No Arrests Nearly 48 Hours After Smethwick Mosque Stabbing

key takeaways

Nearly 48 hours after the fatal stabbing of 18-year-old Zeshan Afzal, West Midlands Police have confirmed that no arrests have yet been made. The manhunt for the suspects responsible for the attack outside the Jamia Masjid mosque on Oldbury Road is now nearing the two-day mark. Detectives from the Homicide Unit are meticulously reviewing digital forensic data and CCTV footage to identify those involved in the pre-incident disorder that occurred shortly before 9:00 PM on February 20, 2026.

Family Mourning and British Pakistani Heritage

The victim, Zeshan Afzal, was a local British Pakistani teenager and the beloved son of Muhammad Afzal. His sudden death has sent shockwaves through the community, particularly as it occurred during the holy month of Ramadan. While the family has roots in Mohra Sher Shah, Pakistan, Zeshan was well-known in the Smethwick and Sandwell youth circles. The Afzal family has requested privacy at their home address as they navigate this devastating loss.

Janaza Status and Survivor Updates

Official Janaza (funeral) arrangements remain pending as authorities complete the necessary post-mortem examinations required for the murder inquiry. Local community services are expected to release funeral details once the coroner releases Zeshan's body to the family. Meanwhile, the two survivors of the triple stabbing, aged 19 and 22, are still receiving medical care and remain in stable condition.

Police Investigation and Public Appeal

West Midlands Police have reiterated that they are not currently treating the incident as religiously or racially motivated. To support the investigation, officers are urgently appealing for any digital evidence, including mobile phone clips or dashcam footage from the Oldbury Road area between 8:30 PM and 9:30 PM on the night of the attack. Information can be provided directly via the police Public Portal or by calling 101, quoting log number 4896 of 20 February.