Hundreds of people protested outside Cardiff Bay police station tonight following the death of Mohamud Mohammed Hassan, after he was released from police custody.
Hundreds of protestors gathered outside Cardiff Central Library on Tuesday, January 12, chanting and carrying placards.
Many protesters said they were angry at the police and wanted answers.
Layla Mohamed, 36, said: ”We’re here for justice and we want answers. The police are here to protect us and we’ll be going to them for answers.
“Mohamud was a lovely person. He had a heart of gold, he just got married recently and his wife was expecting a baby. How do you think she feels? She deserves answers right now.”
The crowds marched down Bute Street towards the Cardiff Bay Police station. Chants of “Justice for Mohamud” and “Black Lives Matter” were ringing loud.
The protestors then positioned themselves outside the police station and family and friends of Mohamud gathered to give speeches.
Nel Adams, a protester, said: “What happened to this boy? We do not stand for this. We’re here today, we need to know why this happened. He was a young boy with a future and he was a part of this community. But the community stands here broken. How do you expect us to feel safe?”
One of Mohamud’s friends also voiced his concerns. He said Mohamud had only been living in Cardiff for around two years and had lived in London before.
“You’d never think he’d die in Cardiff. He was about to become a father. It’s real and I’m so happy we’ve turned out for Mohamud,” he said.
Bianca Ali, 29, a key figure in the Black Lives Matter movement, said: “It was not shocking when the news broke, I was really saddened. We are here and we will react. They will not keep us quiet. Mohamud’s story will be told and we will get justice. I want the truth, I want transparency.”
Earlier today, Plaid Cymru leader Adam Price expressed his concerns in the Senedd.
He said: “Mr Hassan was arrested at his Roath home on Friday on suspicion of breach of the peace but released without charge on Saturday morning.
“Having been taken into custody at Cardiff Bay police station, Mr Hassan was released without charge on Saturday. Later that evening he tragically died.
“Witnesses were reportedly shocked by Mr Hassan’s condition following his release, saying that his tracksuit was covered in blood and he had severe injuries and bruising.
“There can be no doubt that this is a deeply harrowing case and every effort should be made to seek the truth of what happened – why was Mohamud Hassan arrested, what happened during his arrest, did he have legal representation, was there any aftercare, why did this young man die?
“Whilst we should not prejudge the outcome of any inquiry, will you commit First Minister to doing everything within your power to help the family find those answers and do you support their call for an independent investigation of this case?”
Huw Thomas, leader of Cardiff Council, took to Twitter to express his concerns.
He said: “The news of Mohamud Mohammed Hassan’s death is shocking and tragic and I offer my deepest condolences to his family. I’ve spoken to SWP and the case has been referred to the IOPC.
“I urge the investigation to be transparent and swift, to address the sincere concerns shared by many.”
A Gofundme page set up to help with legal procedures for the family has surpassed it’s £30,000 target in just one day.