An officer involved in the Henry Nowak case has resigned, Hampshire Police confirmed today. The 18-year-old student was stabbed to death by 23-year-old Vickrum Digwa in Southampton on December 3 2025. Harrowing body-worn camera footage shows Mr Nowak being handcuffed as he lay dying, repeatedly saying, 'I've been stabbed,' to which an officer replied, 'Don't think you have, mate.'
Police Statement and IOPC Investigation
A spokesperson for Hampshire Police stated: 'Three of the officers are still serving, one officer has resigned. As the IOPC has confirmed, they are all being treated as witnesses, so not subject to any current restrictions.' The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is expected to report on the case within the next three months, examining a large amount of body-worn video and material from Digwa's trial.
Prime Minister's Reaction
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said he 'felt sick' watching the footage and that there are 'serious questions' to answer about the case. He emphasised the need to examine how 'accusations of racism' informed police decision-making. Digwa had lied to police, claiming he was the victim of a racist attack, before being convicted of murder this week.
Sentencing and Background
Digwa was given a life sentence with a minimum of 21 years for stabbing Mr Nowak with a ceremonial Sikh dagger featuring a 21cm blade. The case has sparked widespread outrage and scrutiny of police conduct during the incident.
