Family of businessman killed in raid say thanks to brave officers
THE family of a Birmingham businessman shot dead during an armed robbery have said they are pleased he was not alone when he died.
Akhtar Javeed was shot in the leg, chest and face in the ‘execution’style murder when crooks targeted his business Direct Source 3, in Digbeth.
Earlier this year Suraj Mistry, 26, of Laundon Way, Leicester, was sentenced to 23 years in jail for Mr Javeed’s manslaughter and found guilty of conspiracy to commit robbery and possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear, harm and violence.
Lemar Wali, 19, of Osmaston Park Road in Derby, was found guilty of conspiracy to commit robbery and jailed for seven years.
Sander Van Aalten, a former employee of Mr Javeed, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit robbery and was sent to prison for six years and eight months at Birming- ham Crown Court. Mr Javeed didn’t die instantly – West Midlands Police officers who were first to the scene battled desperately to save his life.
Sergeants Richard Nutt and Julie Kempson, plus PC Matt Moore, administered first aid in a bid to stem the blood loss and performed CPR for around 30 minutes while paramedics performed advanced trauma care. Grandfather Mr Javeed sadly passed away in hospital shortly after the February 3 attack.
The three officers were awarded a special certificate on behalf of the Royal Humane Society at an awards ceremony that was attended by several of Mr Javeed’s family. Mr Javeed’s daughter, Lilas, said: “We wanted to be there in person to thank the officers for the selflessness and care they showed my father; they went above and beyond in trying to save his life.
“Without a second thought they put themselves in potential danger not knowing if armed robbers were still present.
“But most of all they showed him love and care in what turned out to be his last moments, after he had experienced such cruelty.
“They were there for him when we were not able to be… and it helps us to know he was not alone in his last moments.”
Sgt Julie Kempson said the scene that confronted her and colleagues on the day had deeply affected them – and that talking to Mr Javeed’s family since his death had helped.
She added: “None of us think we were brave... we did our job and tried desperately to keep Mr Javeed alive. We alternated CPR between us for around half an hour, I’m just sorry Mr Javeed didn’t pull through.
“It’s very humbling for Mr Javeed’s family to have thanked us for our efforts. I wish them all the best for the future.”