'The world is a dangerous place': Imam’s warning after two Sheffield shootings in 10 days

Amar Hafiz spoke out after shots were fired at a house on Ferrars Road, Tinsley, at 7.45pm on Monday night, just 10 days after a man was shot dead in the city.

Nobody was injured in that gun attack but on Saturday, April 10, Khurm Javed, also known as Khuram, was killed when shots were fired after a ‘confrontation between two parties’ on Clough Road, near Bramall Lane.

The 30-year-old was solicitor, who worked for a London Road-based law firm, was married and had two children.

Mr Hafiz, of Jamia Masjid Abu Bakr mosque in Eastwood, Rotherham, has called for ‘good citizens’ to take action to prevent further gun crime in and around Sheffield.

In a Facebook post after the second shooting, Mr Hafiz expressed his concerns.

He said: “Gun violence is real. People don’t come back.

“Bloodshed has always existed from the beginning of creation. It is a sad reality and inevitable that these senseless, abysmal and distressing events will take place every so often as humans evolve and the day of judgement becomes closer.

“Violent crime is a cause of concern and is perpetrated by people from all races, ethnicities and backgrounds. However, being in the position of an Imam, I would like to send out a clear message to my Muslim community that human life is extremely sacred and honourable in Islam.”

He added: “Shaykh Muhammad Imdad Hussain Pirzada writes in his book Human Rights, ‘life is an asset which has no substitute and therefore every human being enjoys the right to life, irrespective of whether he is a Muslim or a non-Muslim. It is one of the most grievous sins to destroy life.’

“Two shootings have taken place in the last week in Sheffield. One of which took the life of Khuram Javed and the second took place today (Tuesday) in which thankfully there were no fatalities. It breaks my heart to see Muslims killing Muslims. For what? This is something for us all to lose sleep over.”

Mr Hafiz added: “I plea to my young brothers to let us empty our hearts from hatred, malice and envy. Let us embrace the brotherhood and unity that Allah loves.

“The world is a dangerous place to live. Not because of the people who are evil, but because of the good people who don't do anything about it. This is the reason why I have shared this message to raise awareness and for us to appreciate and value life.

“Strong gun laws do not prevent violence. Only good citizens prevent violence.”

Two arrests have been made over Mr Javed’s murder but nobody has yet been charged.

Two men, aged 21 and 23, were held on suspicion of murder before being bailed after police questioning.

A 45-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of firearm offences over the shooting in Tinsley.

Anyone with information about either incident should call South Yorkshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.

CRIME: Funeral fundraiser launched to help family of Danny Irons give ‘the best send-off possible’

LATEST: Man dies after suffering medical episode on Sheffield estate

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.