Cop Faces Sword-Wielding Attack in Dagenham Domestic
PC Aksit Ekrem was just doing his job when a routine call exploded into a terrifying battle. On the evening of 30 November 2020, he and his partner rushed to a Dagenham home after reports of a violent, threatening 60-something man.
They were met by a young woman who said her boyfriend’s father had been abusive and even slapped her boyfriend. Inside the house, an intoxicated older woman tried to block their entry—but PC Ekrem pushed on.
Sword Attack Shocks Officer
PC Ekrem found the suspect: a frail-looking old man sitting silently in the corner. As the officer tried to arrest him, the man suddenly sprang up and pulled out a sword, swinging it straight at PC Ekrem’s head.
“I dove to avoid the blade, but it still cut my hand,” PC Ekrem recalled. “I drew my Taser and fired, but he was moving and the Taser missed. Then he stabbed me in the face with the sword tip.”
The attacker lunged again, but stumbled, letting PC Ekrem tackle and pin him to the ground. Bleeding and injured, PC Ekrem called for backup and an ambulance, fearing for his life and the safety of others in the house.
Hero Cop’s Grim Aftermath
- The 62-year-old assailant was charged with grievous bodily harm with intent and jailed for seven years.
- PC Ekrem suffered ligament and nerve damage, muscle wastage, and was off work for six months.
- He underwent surgery with pins inserted into his hand and struggled with flashbacks, requiring therapy.
Despite the trauma, PC Ekrem stayed humble about his heroism. “I don’t see myself as a hero,” he said. “I was just doing my job, but it’s nice to be recognised.”
Police Federation Hails “Astonishing Bravery”
Metropolitan Police Federation Chairman Ken Marsh praised PC Ekrem’s courage. “This is the often unseen work of our officers. Aksit thought this was a normal day at work until it turned violent. I commend his astonishing bravery in risking his life to protect others.”
PC Ekrem has now been nominated for the National Police Bravery Awards, celebrating officers across England and Wales for exceptional courage. He will attend the London ceremony this July as a proud nominee.
