‘Devastated’ family pays tribute to ‘bubbly person’
THE heartbroken family of a man found dead on a country lane on Christmas Day have paid a touching tribute to him.
The body of Mohammed Aftab, 21, was discovered on Dyehouse Lane, in Rochdale, around 8.15am December 25.
Mohammed’s family, from Belfield, have spoken of their devastating loss, saying he had ‘respect and love for people from all walks of life’.
In a statement issued through Greater Manchester Police they said: at on “There are no words to describe what has happened, what we have lost.
“We ask as a family why someone so vibrant and full of life has now been taken from us?
“Aftab was an older brother to his sisters.
“They and his younger brother idolised him. This has been a devastating loss to all the family.
“You see these things happen to other people but can never comprehend it when it happens to you. We all loved him from the bottom of our hearts and will miss him.”
The family described Aftab, an avid Arsenal fan who loved football, as a ‘bubbly person’ who adored his family.
“Nobody had a bad word to say about Aftab. This has left all his friends and family heartbroken,” they added.
“In the last few days we have had unimaginable support from people including those we have not known.
“We are thankful for everyone’s love and support they have shown, especially those from the Rochdale community.
“I would like to thank the police for their support at this very difficult time.
“My only concern is that no family should endure what we have, the loss of a young man who had his whole life ahead of him.”
Police said Mohammed had suffered multiple head injuries and stab wounds to his neck.
Jason Byrnes, 26, of Waithlands Road, Rochdale, has been charged with murdering Mohammed Aftab. He was due to appear before Manchester and Salford Magistrates Court on Saturday. ●●Mohammed Aftab’s body was found on Christmas Day. Police say he had suffered multiple head injuries and stab wounds to his neck