Man sentenced for attempted murder of social worker

The Noel Park resident also attacked two police officers as they attempted to carry out a welfare check in north London

Wood Green robbery — Credit Metropolitan Police

A man has been found guilty of the attempted murder of a social worker who was carrying out a welfare check on a family in north London.

Sulai Bukhari approached the 61-year-old social worker while he was attempting to carry out a check on the welfare of children at an address on Noel Park Road. The victim had called police to assist him in carrying out the check at 8pm on 6th August 2021, who then entered the property. The social worker was standing outside the property alone when he was approached.

Bukhari then stabbed the social worker eight times with two Swiss Army-style knives. Hearing the attack, the police officers came to the social worker’s aid where they were also injured: one receiving a laceration to his armpit and the other suffering injuries to his neck, chest and arms. Bukhari was then detained and taken into police custody.

The social worker was taken to hospital where he received treatment for wounds to his chest, abdomen, shoulder and arms.

On Monday, 20th March, Bukhari attended the Old Bailey where he was given a hospital order under Section 37 of the Mental Health Act, and a restriction order under Section 41 of the same act. He was further convicted of two counts of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent.

Detective constable Elliott Hughes, from the North Area Command, said: “It is only thanks to sheer luck that the main victim of this incident was not more seriously injured. The long lasting impact on him has been substantial and he now suffers from ongoing pain due to the injuries as well as the significant psychological effect of such an incident.

“We are reminded with this case of the constant danger some public sector workers face simply by doing their job. On a daily basis they put themselves in harm’s way to protect the public.”

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