The latest episode of 24 Hours in Police Custody Investigates: Zombie Knives turns its focus to one of the most disturbing trends in youth violence in recent years: the rise of so-called ‘zombie-style’ knives. These oversized, aggressively designed weapons (often sold online with lurid branding) have been repeatedly linked to fatal stabbings involving teenagers, prompting urgent calls for tighter laws.
Many were marketed online using language and visuals that explicitly appealed to young people, with names and slogans referencing horror films, video games and “street culture”.
The Channel 4 special follows Bedfordshire Police as they confront the devastating consequences of these weapons in the months before it became illegal to purchase – something that came into force September 2024, as part of a government crackdown on dangerous weapons with no legitimate purpose.
In 24 Hours in Police Custody, officers document the national surrender scheme introduced in 2024, during which Bedfordshire Police say more than 37,000 zombie knives were handed in across Bedfordshire alone, largely linked to two Luton-based companies that had been selling them online.
It also examines the fatalities at the hands of zombie knives, amongst which is the killing of 16-year-old Ashraf Habimana in Luton – and the conviction of teenager Athif Hussaindeen, who was later sentenced to life in prison.
Who is Athif Hussaindeen?
Athif Hussaindeen is one of the teenagers convicted for his role in the fatal stabbing of Ashraf Habimana on 29 September 2023, a case featured in 24 Hours in Police Custody. Ashraf had just finished college and was with friends in a Luton car park when a fight between two groups escalated.
Ashraf was not involved in the earlier dispute. However, CCTV footage later showed Athif stabbing him multiple times in the back during the confrontation. Another teenager was also injured.
In court, prosecutors described how zombie-style knives were used during the attack.
Athif was convicted of murder, attempted murder, violent disorder and possession of a bladed article. His twin brother, Althaf Hussaindeen, was convicted of manslaughter and violent disorder. Five other teenagers were also sentenced in connection with the killing.
At sentencing, Ashraf’s family spoke openly about the scale of their loss and the impact his death has had on their lives. “On 29 September 2023, my loving, caring, calm and extraordinary son was senselessly robbed of his life,” they said in a statement released via Bedfordshire Police. “Ashraf was a good friend, a son and brother, who was loved by his family, friends and all those who knew him.”
Where is Athif Hussaindeen now?
Athif Hussaindeen was sentenced at Luton Crown Court to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 24 years, meaning he will not be eligible for parole until at least his late 30s.
His exact location has not been publicly disclosed.
As Superintendent Alex House, Bedfordshire Police’s knife crime lead, said when commenting on the programme: “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.
“Strong partnerships across services play a vital role in addressing root causes and supporting a long-term, preventative approach to knife crime. 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.”
Watch '24 Hours in Police Custody' at 9pm on 19 January 2026 on Channel 4 or on 4OD
