Murder of 16-year-old Luton boy to feature in documentary on zombie knives
The program will explore Bedfordshire Police's efforts to clamp down on knife crime, and reflect on the impacts of Ashraf Habimana's murder in 2023
A new documentary focusing on the devastating impact of zombie-style knives is set to air this month, featuring Bedfordshire Police and the tragic case of 16-year-old Ashraf Habimana.
24 Hours in Police Custody Investigates: Zombie Knives will be broadcast on Channel 4 on Tuesday 20th January 2026 at 9pm.
The one-hour programme delves into the rise of zombie-style knives—designed and marketed to appeal to young people—prior to their ban in September 2024, and examines the consequences of their misuse.
The documentary follows Bedfordshire Police during a knife surrender programme in 2024, which resulted in 37,000 knives being handed in within the county, including large quantities from two companies based in Luton.
Among the cases explored in the programme is the fatal stabbing of 16-year-old Ashraf Habimana on 29th September 2023, which occurred after a dispute outside school escalated.
Seven teenagers were sentenced in connection with his death, including one who received a life sentence for murder.
The programme highlights the emotional toll this tragic event has had on Ashraf’s family, particularly his mother.
Zombie-style knives, along with machetes, were banned across England and Wales on 24th September 2024.
The legislation prohibited the manufacturing, supply, possession, and importation of these weapons, aiming to prevent further harm.
Superintendent Alex House, Bedfordshire Police’s knife crime lead, said: “This documentary offers a powerful and unflinching insight into the devastating reality of knife crime.
“It shows just how dangerous and destructive zombie-style knives are and why it is so important that we work together to stop them falling into the hands of young people.”
House also stressed the importance of preventing knife crime through collaborative efforts and addressing root causes. “I hope this programme delivers a clear message directly to young people about the very real risks and consequences of purchasing or carrying a knife, and encourages them to surrender any weapons, seek support and ultimately to Just Drop It,” House said.
Additionally, the documentary includes the story of 16-year-old Ronan Kanda, whose fatal stabbing in Wolverhampton in June 2022 drove the creation of Ronan’s Law.
This legislation banned ninja swords and prompted their surrender in 2025.