Life Behind Bars for Murderer Who Brutally Attacked Man in Nelson
A man convicted of a savage murder in Nelson has been jailed for life. Naeem Mustafa was found guilty of killing Michael Brierley and assaulting his 67-year-old partner during the horrific attack.
Shocking Details of the Fatal Attack
Michael Brierley suffered an appalling 164 impact injuries, mostly from weapons. Emergency services were called to Berkeley Close just before 1pm on November 8 last year after Mr Brierley was found dead inside his bungalow.
Home Office pathologist Dr Philip Lumb confirmed Mr Brierley died from severe injuries to his head, chest, and limbs.
Mustafa’s Reign of Terror and Cuckooing Abuse
Investigators revealed Mustafa had been living at the address and controlled both victims. Over months, he assaulted them repeatedly, took over the house, and even diverted Mr Brierley’s disability benefits into his own bank account.
On the day of the murder, the pair went to a local shop to buy alcohol. CCTV caught Mustafa attacking Mr Brierley en route. Minutes later, Mr Brierley’s partner called an ambulance after finding him unresponsive.
Forensic evidence linked Mustafa to the brutal assault. Blood traces from Mr Brierley were found on Mustafa’s clothes and trainers, proving close contact during the fatal attack.
Justice Served – But a Warning Issued
Mustafa, 48, from St Paul’s Road, Nelson, was convicted of murder and a Section 18 assault at Preston Crown Court. A 31-year-old Nelson woman was cleared of assisting an offender.
Mustafa was sentenced on June 16 to life imprisonment with a minimum of 27 years before parole eligibility.
“I am pleased with the sentence handed down to Mustafa. He is a callous and remorseless individual who targeted society’s most vulnerable,” said DCI Allen Davies. “Michael and his partner were victims of cuckooing – where abusers take over homes for exploitation. Michael confided in friends but feared police involvement due to Mustafa’s threats. We urge anyone suffering abuse to come forward.”
Spot the Signs of Cuckooing – Report Abuse Now
Cuckooing involves criminals taking over vulnerable people’s homes to exploit them financially or otherwise. Often linked to drug gangs, it includes any form of coercive control backed by violence or threats.
Police urge neighbours, friends, and family to be vigilant for signs like sudden changes in behaviour, shouting, unexplained injuries, or evidence of control and report anything suspicious immediately.
If you or someone you know is a victim, dial 101 to report it. In an emergency, always call 999. No piece of information is too small — it could save a life.
