Man Found Guilty of Brutal Stabbing Murder in St John’s Wood
Kamal Hussain, 22, from Maida Vale, has been convicted of manslaughter over the savage killing of 25-year-old Zahir Visiter in St John’s Wood.
Stabbing Shocker on Cunningham Place
The grim incident unfolded at around 6:15pm on Thursday, 28 March, when Zahir was stabbed four times near his home in NW8. Just minutes earlier, Zahir left with around £280 in cash, telling his family he was heading to a nearby meeting to hand over money.
Zahir was attacked violently – one stab hit his back, another wounded his arm as he tried to defend himself. But fatal blows to his chest pierced his lung and even his aorta, causing deadly blood loss.
Passersby, including an off-duty paramedic and GP, rushed to help, but Zahir collapsed just yards from his flat and was pronounced dead at St Mary’s Hospital shortly after 7pm.
CCTV Footage Reveals Chilling Chase
CCTV caught Hussain riding a rented bike in the area minutes before the stabbing. He circled back near Zahir’s location just before the attack, then followed closely behind the mortally wounded man, hood pulled tight over his head.
A witness told the court Hussain wore a balaclava during the incident and lingered nearby, watching as others tried to save Zahir.
He fled along Regent’s Canal towpath, discarding a knife and a balaclava, which police later recovered.
Police Hunt Ends with Dramatic Arrest
Police circulated Hussain’s details, and plainclothes officers spotted him crossing the canal near Lisson Green Estate. He ran to the Central Mosque, hiding in the underground car park and discarding outer clothes. DNA found on abandoned trousers confirmed his presence.
Hussain was arrested on 3 April but refused to answer questions, instead providing a prepared statement denying involvement.
Detective Sergeant Gary Royal said: “What exactly led to this brutal stabbing may never be known for sure. It appears the money Zahir had was missing, but whether robbery or another motive was behind this remains unclear.
“What we do know is that this was a planned and vicious attack. The wounds were delivered with brutal force.”
“I thank those who helped Zahir and those who assisted the investigation. I hope today’s verdict brings some closure to his traumatised family.”
Hussain will be sentenced at the Old Bailey on Friday, 15 November.
