Man convicted for Westminster murder

A man who killed 26-year-old Farmanullah Sherzad in Westminster has been convicted of murder.

Sulaiman Tajzai, 18 (01.01.08), of Wesley Road, Leeds, pleaded guilty at the Old Bailey on Friday, 11 September to murder and possession of a bladed article.

Police were called to reports of a stabbing on Abbey Orchard Street, Westminster, on Friday, 27 March 2026. Officers attended and found Farmanullah unconscious. Despite the efforts of medical staff, he died at the scene around 20 minutes later.

Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley, who led the investigation, said:

"Our thoughts remain firmly with Farmanullah's family and loved ones as they continue to come to terms with his tragic loss. While no outcome can undo the suffering caused by his death, we hope today's conviction provides some measure of closure and reassurance that the person responsible has been brought to justice.

"This is a devastating case in which a young man lost his life after being subjected to a brutal and senseless act of violence. No family should have to endure the pain of losing a loved one in such circumstances.

"I would like to commend the dedication and professionalism of the investigative team, who worked meticulously to piece together crucial CCTV, and forensic evidence to build a compelling case.

"I am also grateful to members of the public who assisted officers during the investigation.

The investigation

At around 22:15hrs on 27 March 2026, police were called to Abbey Orchard Street, Westminster, after Farmanullah Sherzad was found with stab wounds by a member of the public.

Despite the efforts of medical staff, the 26-year-old died around 20 minutes later.

Officers established through CCTV enquiries that Sulaiman Tajzai had purchased a knife from a corner shop in Leeds before travelling to London by train on the same day.

Further footage captured Tajzai waiting outside Farmanullah’s address when he arrived home from work at around 22:15hrs. Upon seeing Tajzai, Farmanullah attempted to flee. Tajzai chased him onto Abbey Orchard Street, where he fatally stabbed him.

After the attack, Tajzai fled the scene, dropping a pair of black gloves near St James' Park. Following forensic examination, Farmanullah's blood was found on the gloves, while DNA recovered from inside them was linked to Tajzai.

CCTV footage also revealed that Tajzai had travelled to London in the weeks before the attack to scope out Farmanullah's home address and where he worked.

Tajzai is due to be sentenced at the Old Bailey on Friday, 18 September.