PC Saves the Day After Sword Attack in Dagenham Domestic Incident
Violent Call Turns Deadly
On the evening of 30 November 2020, PC Aksit Ekrem and his partner were dispatched to a domestic violence call in Dagenham. A woman reported a man in his sixties acting violently towards her and her boyfriend. Upon arrival, a young woman told officers that her boyfriend’s father had been abusive, threatening them and slapping the boyfriend.
Sword-Wielding Attacker Strikes
Inside the house, PC Ekrem found a frail old man sitting quietly. As his partner spoke to the young woman, Ekrem tried to arrest the man. Suddenly, the suspect leapt up, pulled a sword from behind him, and swung it at Ekrem.
“I dove to avoid the blow, but he caught me on the hand. I backed up, drew my Taser and fired – but missed. Then he plunged the sword into my face,” PC Ekrem recalled.
Heroic Arrest Despite Serious Injuries
Bloodied and shaken, Ekrem pushed the attacker to the ground and pinned him down. Only then did he realise the extent of his injuries. He called for backup and an ambulance, all while fearing the sword might be used against him or others.
The 62-year-old attacker was charged with grievous bodily harm with intent and sentenced to seven years in prison.
Long Road to Recovery and Recognition
PC Ekrem was hospitalised with ligament and nerve damage, receiving pins in his hand and facing six months off work. He also battled flashbacks and required therapy for trauma.
“I don’t see myself as a hero, just doing my job,” Ekrem said of his National Police Bravery Award nomination. “But it’s nice to be recognised.”
Metropolitan Police Federation Chairman Ken Marsh praised Ekrem’s courage: “He thought it was a normal day at work, but it quickly turned violent. I commend his astonishing bravery in facing grave danger to protect others.”
National Police Bravery Awards
The awards honour officers across England and Wales who show exceptional bravery on and off duty. PC Ekrem will be a nominee at the London ceremony this July.
