Six held over market trader murder attempt

Aug 11 2007 by Liam Murphy, Liverpool Daily Post

TWO teenagers are among six people arrested over the attempted murder of a man in Wirral.

The victim, in his 60s, was found with serious head injuries at Grange View Flats at the Woodlands in Birkenhead on Thursday morning .

Police arrested a 13 year-old boy, along with a 31-year-old woman, a 28-year-old woman and a 42-year-old man later that day.

Two others – a 30 year old man and a 16 year-old youth – were arrested yesterday by detectives investigating the attempted murder.

All of them, save the two men, were released on bail last night.

The victim, named locally as Bashir Ahmed, and also known as Peter, was found with serious head injuries by paramedics.

Forensic experts were yesterday at the Birkenhead flat and house-to-house inquiries by detectives were continuing.

Mr Ahmed has been a trader at Birkenhead Market since 1973.

It is believed he is single with one brother. A police spokesman said last night his condition remained “poorly”.

Birkenhead Market marketing director Danny Doyle said other traders and workers at the market were upset about the incident.

He said: “He’s a really likeable character and everyone here knows him as a thorough gentleman.

“Bashir was the first Asian trader at the market and he came here in 1973.

“The staff here are all really upset. He’s always one to say hello and give you a smile.

“Everyone here is praying he’s OK.”

Fellow trader John Farrell said: “He is a lovely guy. Out of all of us he’s one of the people that has been here the longest and we're all wishing him well.” Mr Ahmed’s neighbour Paul O’Connel, 48, said: “He’s always really cheerful and friendly and always says hello.”

Police said the attack was not believed to be racially motivated.

Detective Inspector George Davies said: “We are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information to contact police on 0151 777 2265 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

liammurphy