Victim Stabbed Multiple Times in Unprovoked Attack
A man who launched a violent, random attack on a stranger in Peterborough city centre has been sentenced to six-and-a-half years in prison.
Inam Qureshi, 45, approached his first victim from behind at around 6:40 am on 28 July last year while he was walking along Bright Street. The man, who is in his 50s, was stabbed several times—twice in the leg, once in the arm, and once in the head—during the unprovoked assault.
Despite his injuries, the victim managed to call for an ambulance, which then alerted police. A search of the area was launched as officers attempted to locate the suspect.
Second Attack Followed Moments Later
Shortly after the stabbing, Qureshi made his way towards Cathedral Square via Westgate, where he targeted another unsuspecting member of the public. He threw a hot drink over a passerby before chasing him down the street and punching him to the ground.
Arrest and Court Hearing
Armed police officers later arrested Qureshi as he was leaving a shop in Lincoln Road, off North Street. During police interviews, he claimed he had no recollection of the morning’s events but admitted that he was the person captured in CCTV footage.
Qureshi, of no fixed address, appeared at Cambridge Crown Court on 7 March, where he pleaded guilty to assault causing grievous bodily harm with intent and assault causing actual bodily harm. He was sentenced to six-and-a-half years in prison.
Police Condemn Unprovoked Violence
Detective Constable Maisy Napier, who led the investigation, described the attacks as extremely concerning, highlighting the devastating impact on the victims and the wider community. She noted that the first victim, who suffered multiple stab wounds, continues to struggle with the psychological effects of the attack.
Qureshi remains in custody as he begins his sentence for the violent and unprovoked assaults.
