Essex Sikhs tell Henry Nowak’s mum his death will not divide them

So far, at least 23 people have been charged and 13 defendants jailed for protests that broke out in Southampton after Digwa was jailed.

Speaking after the sentencing, Henry’s father Mark Nowak called for people to not exploit or politicise his death.

“We want to use Henry’s heartbreaking story to make change for the better,” he said.

“We do not want his death to be used to create further division, hatred, or tension. We want his story to make our streets safer for everyone.”

The law dictates that a practising Sikh may wear a small blade, known as a kirpan, close to the body – but drawing it in an act of aggression is illegal.

While Digwa was wearing such a knife, his second blade, described by the trial judge as “a large Sikh dagger”, was used as the murder weapon.

The prison term he received has been referred to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.

The case will be heard at a later date.

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