Full Breakdown
Conviction in the Murder of Zahwa Mukhtar
3/5/2026, 7:59:21 PM
Overview of the Incident
Duane Owusu, 36, has been convicted of murdering 27-year-old Zahwa Mukhtar after a violent altercation in east London on August 16, 2025. The jury at the Old Bailey found Owusu guilty following nearly 12 hours of deliberation. Mukhtar, who was profoundly deaf, had met Owusu and his group during a night out and joined them in an overcrowded Mercedes after inhaling laughing gas balloons at a rave.
Sequence of Events
During the car ride to Dagenham, Mukhtar reportedly argued with one of Owusu's female companions, leading to a physical confrontation. Evidence presented in court indicated that Owusu responded by throwing Mukhtar's phone out of the vehicle, ejecting her onto the pavement, and subsequently kicking her twice in the face. The fatal blow came when Owusu punched Mukhtar in the neck, causing her to fall and sustain severe injuries. The incident was captured on CCTV, which played a crucial role in the prosecution's case.
Medical Findings and Aftermath
Emergency services were alerted to Mukhtar's condition by members of the public. She was found unresponsive at 5:31 AM and pronounced dead at 6:21 AM, having suffered a fractured skull and brain injury. Owusu and his group were stopped by police shortly after leaving the scene but were unaware of the severity of Mukhtar's injuries at that time.
Official Statements & Responses
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Clarke from Scotland Yard commented on the case, stating, "CCTV footage collected by the investigation team painted a damning picture of Owusu’s guilt." He expressed condolences to Mukhtar's family, highlighting the "horrendous circumstances" of her death. Judge Richard Marks KC, who presided over the trial, described the incident as "ugly" and expressed his shock at the events that unfolded.
Defense and Testimonies
Owusu denied the charge of murder, claiming he only intended to "de-escalate" the situation by pushing Mukhtar away from the car. He described himself as "traumatized" by the incident and asserted that he did not believe Mukhtar was severely injured. However, witnesses, including Paige Allen, described Owusu's actions as fueled by rage, with Allen stating, "He looked like a monster. His behaviour was just wrong."
Criticism & Opposition
The trial was marked by emotional turmoil, particularly when Mukhtar's brother, Abas Mukhtar, lunged at Owusu in the courtroom, leading to his contempt of court fine. This incident underscored the intense emotional impact of the case on Mukhtar's family and the courtroom environment.
What's Next
Owusu is scheduled to be sentenced on March 12, 2025. The case has raised significant public interest and concern regarding violence and the treatment of vulnerable individuals in social settings.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He said: “CCTV footage collected by the investigation team painted a damning picture of Owusu’s guilt.” — Detective Chief Inspector Phil Clarke
- “Fining the 28-year-old plumber £1,000 for contempt of court, Judge Marks said: “It was an ugly and sustained attempt at assault.” — Judge Richard Marks KC
