Court increases sentence of murderer Digwa

Vickrum Digwa, the 23-year-old who fatally stabbed 18-year-old Henry Nowak, faces an increased minimum term of his life sentence thanks to a recent decision by the Court of Appeal. This judgement follows a referral by Attorney General Ellie Reeves KC MP under the Unduly Lenient Sentence Scheme. Initially sentenced on 1 June 2026 at Southampton Crown Court to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 21 years for one count of murder and possession of a bladed article, Digwa's sentence was revised to 25 years following the Attorney General's intervention.

The horrific attack took place on the evening of 3 December 2025 when Digwa, carrying a large Sikh dagger, encountered Nowak, a first-year student at Southampton University. The pair were strangers, but after a brief exchange, Digwa relentlessly stabbed Nowak multiple times. The brutal assault included strikes to the chest, legs, and abdomen, leaving the young victim grievously wounded.

After the attack, rather than seeking help for Nowak, Digwa filmed him while he attempted to escape and continued recording as he lay dying on the ground. In a further demonstration of his indifference, he instructed his mother to dispose of the murder weapon and lied to police officers about the details surrounding the incident.

Henry’s father, in a Victim Impact Statement, expressed the profound loss felt by his family: "The devastation of losing Henry at such a young age is immeasurable and has left a void that can never be filled." Attorney General Ellie Reeves KC MP also remarked on the tragic nature of the case, stating "The brutality and cruelty of this case horrified me, and I know that feeling is shared by the British public." She welcomed the increased sentence and emphasised her thoughts remain with Henry’s family during this painful time, remarking "No sentence can ever fill the void left by his loss."

The Court of Appeal's revised sentencing aims to reflect the severity of Digwa’s actions and the lasting impact they have had on the victim's family and friends.