The family of a Birmingham businessman shot dead during an armed robbery have paid an emotional tribute to the West Midlands Police officers who battled to try and save his life.
Sergeants Richard Nutt and Julie Kempson, plus PC Matt Moore, were first on the scene of the warehouse raid in Digbeth where Akhtar Javeed had suffered gunshot wounds to his leg, chest and face.
The officers administered first aid in a bid to stem the blood loss and performed CPR for around 30 minutes while paramedics performed advanced trauma care.
PC Moore then ‘blue lighted’ the ambulance to hospital in order to free-up the driver to treat Mr Javeed in the back of the vehicle.
Grandfather Mr Javeed sadly passed away in hospital shortly after the February 3 attack and three people were later jailed for a total of almost 40 years for their part in plotting and carrying out the robbery.
In recognition of their efforts, the three officers were awarded a special certificate on behalf of the Royal Humane Society at an awards ceremony that was attended by several of Mr Javeed’s family.
Mr Javeed’s daughter, Lilas, said: “We wanted to be there in person to thank the officers for the selflessness and care they showed my father; they went above and beyond in trying to save his life."
“Without a second thought they put themselves in potential danger not knowing if armed robbers were still present."
“But most of all they showed him love and care in what turned out to be his last moments, after he had experienced such cruelty. They were there for him when we were not able to be…and it helps us to know he was not alone in his last moments."
“To us, these officers truly deserve these awards."
Sgt Julie Kempson said the scene that confronted her and colleagues on the day had deeply affected them - and that talking to Mr Javeed’s family since his death had helped.
She added: “None of us think we were brave…we did our job and tried desperately to keep Mr Javeed alive. We alternated CPR between us for around half an hour…I’m just sorry Mr Javeed didn’t pull through."
“It’s very humbling for Mr Javeed’s family to have thanked us for our efforts; they are a lovely family and I wish them all the best for the future."
West Midlands Police is working with authorities overseas to trace and bring Tahir Zarif - the man suspected of shooting Mr Javeed during the raid - back to the UK to face justice.
It’s understood Zarif fled the country to Pakistan following the shooting.
Anyone with information on his whereabouts is urged to contact West Midlands Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
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