Waqar Ahmed, 26, Azhil Khan, 23, and Afzal Khan, 22, from Handsworth were sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court to a minimum term of 25 years for the unprovoked, racially aggravated murder in October 2005. Despite the conviction of the three men, Detective Chief Inspector Matthew Ward has stated that the investigation into Isiah’s murder is still on-going. It is believed that there were up to twelve men involved in the incident and ten people have been arrested to date.

Isiah, who worked as an IT analyst for Birmingham City Council was on his way home with his younger brother and two friends last year, when they were attacked by a mob of racist Asian youths. Isiah was stabbed in the heart and pronounced dead upon arrival at hospital.

The defendants were also sentenced to 10 years in prison, to run concurrently, for wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm when they stabbed Isiah’s friend Locksley Byfield. It also emerged that the men were said to have discussed attacking African businesses in the area. The incident took place in October 2005 in Lozells, Birmingham during which time there were a number of clashes between the African and Asian communities.

Mr Justice Mackay said: "They had done nothing to these defendants and done nothing to incur or justify hostility. What led to the death of Isiah Young-Sam was the colour of his skin."

The murder trio, branded “animals” by Isiah’s mother, Murna McLean, fled the country following the attack claiming that they feared being linked to the attack. They were eventually deported after stopping off in Dubai en route to Pakistan.


Isiah Young-Sam



Innocent life

Speaking on behalf of the family, Kavina Young-Sam, Isiah’s sister said: "My parents, my brother and myself will never come to terms with the vicious attack and murder of Isiah and cannot understand how people could take the life of such an innocent young man."

Glyn Evans at Birmingham City Council described Isiah as “a very pleasant and hard working young man. He was very popular with his colleagues and had a bright future in front of him… He will be greatly missed”

Isiah’s mother described her son as having good, old-fashioned manners: "He was gentle and would hold open a door or help someone with their shopping. He didn't have the lifestyle of a typical black young man in Lozells. He wasn't out on the streets or at parties - he didn't even have a steady girlfriend. If someone had tried to drag him into an argument he would have laughed and walked away."


We have no doubt that the loss of an innocent life described as humble, respectful and kind will have a huge resonance for Isiah’s family and friends for years to come. We would like to extend our sincere condolences to his family and those who knew him. May his spirit rest in peace.