Family's moving tribute to "hate" attack victim Mushin Ahmed, 81

POLICE investigating the death of an 81-year-old granddad who died almost two weeks after being attacked in the street said it was being treated as a hate crime — as his family issued a moving tribute to the East Dene father of four.

Yemen-born Mushin Ahmed (pictured) was wearing traditional dress and was walking to morning prayers at Shakespeare Road mosque when he was assaulted on August 10.

Following his death in hospital on Friday, Det Chief Insp Zaf Ali, who is overseeing the investigation, said: “Mr Ahmed was dressed in traditional clothing on his way to the mosque when he was attacked, which is one possible motive for the attack upon him.

“However, the investigation is still at an early stage.

“While we keep an open mind as to the full motive at this time, we are treating this as a hate crime to ensure that all possible lines of enquiry are followed. This is also in line with national crime recording standards.

“Our officers continue to support Mr Ahmed's family at this very difficult time.

“I would like to reiterate that this is an ongoing investigation, with legal proceedings now active against two individuals, so there is a risk that any speculation or comments of this nature could prejudice our continued enquiries.

We will not jeopardise our investigation by commenting further on the detail of this matter other than to reassure all sections the local community of our continued support.

I also appeal to the local community for help in identifying the movements of Mr Ahmed prior to the incident.

“Were you in the area of Doncaster Road area close to the junction of Mowbray Street or Fitzwilliam Road, which is at the Herringthorpe end of Rotherham, in the early hours of Monday, August 10?

“Did you see a group of males hanging around the area, did you drive or walk past them?

“If anyone has any information relating to the attack on Mr Ahmed, no matter how trivial it may seem to you, please contact us.”

Mr Ahmed’s family issued a statement speaking of their heartbreak and paying tribute to him.

It read: “The family is heartbroken to have lost such a loving husband, caring father and grandfather, who was also a gentle and charitable man.

“Mushin was an affable person who smiled and spoke to everyone.

“Well-known throughout the town, he worked hard all his life, held high values and brought his family up with the same moral standards.

“Thank you to everyone for your prayers, support and offers of help.

“The expressions of grief and sadness as well as the flowers are greatly appreciated.

“Thank you to the Police and staff of Rotherham District General Hospital who worked tirelessly on his behalf.”

Two men —  Damien Hunt (29) of Doncaster Road, Rotherham, and Kieran Rice, (21) of Oakes Meadow, Rotherham — have been charged with section 18 assault with intent and are custody ahead of an apperance at Sheffield Crown Court tomorrow. (28).

Two others — a 29-year-old from Dalton and a 24-year-old from Thrybergh — were arrested last week and bailed pending further enquiries.