Sheffield shooting: Mums United's plea for teens 'not to take matters into their own hands' after shooting
The founder of a Sheffield anti-gang group is “calling for calm” from the city’s young people after a 16-year-old boy was shot.
Sahira Irshad, founder of anti-youth violence group Mums United, is asking Sheffield’s teenagers not to take matters into their own hands in response to the frightening incident on Monday night (November 24).
A 16-year-old is in hospital fighting for his life following the shooting at around 5.15pm on London Road.
South Yorkshire Police said earlier today that no arrests had been made, and crime scene investigators are today combing the busy junction with Abbeydale Road.
Sahira told The Star she fears some young people in the city may ‘take matters into their own hands,’ and is calling for calm.
She said: “This is an act of appalling, grotesque violence that has shook the community and I am appealing for calm.
“I was out last night speaking with the young people of the community and they do not feel safe.
“I am appealing for calm from Sheffield's young people today and tonight, and not to react to this by taking matters into their own hands.
“Parents, stay in touch with your children and know where they are, and kids, stay in touch with your parents.
“I’m sending my best wishes to this boy's family and I hope he pulls through.”
Councillor Nighat Basharat, who represents Nether Edge and Sharrow, visited the scene on Monday night to speak with residents.
She said in a statement: “I’ve spoken to some young people whose voices are often not heard, and they shared valuable insights about the barriers they face and what is needed in the area.”
She added that she is arranging a meeting for the London Road community to speak about concerns over youth violence.
But Ms Irshad said: “No meeting is going to set this right. More action needs to be taken by local councillors.
“The whole community is scared and wondering if they are safe in the streets.
“I feel more should be done to create spaces for young people, and we've been saying this for years.
“We need to have an open conversation about the rising level of youth violence because a young man is fighting for his life.”
Ms Irshad added that Councillor for Nether Edge & Sharrow Ibby Ullah had reached out to her organisation.
Mums United was founded by Sahira to tackle youth violence.
Monday’s incident comes only a few months after Sheffield was rocked by three shootings in the spate of a week, one of which resulted in the death of Kassim Mohammed, a 32-year-old dad.