Last update: Tue Aug 26 2008 22:26:55

Fourth arrest over 'racist attack'

Police have arrested a fourth man over the death of a young student in a suspected racist attack outside a kebab shop.

Mohammed Al-Majed, 16, from Qatar, was with friends when he was assaulted outside a takeaway in Hasting, East Sussex, on Friday night. He suffered a head injury and later died in hospital.

In a family statement, Mohammed's father Abdullah paid loving tribute to his son.

He said: "Mohammed was a young student who was loved by his family, friends and teachers. He was a charming, loving boy and there is nothing that can replace our loss.

"Justice has to be done in all this investigation. All of those involved in committing this crime should be punished for this crime on a young, innocent 16-year-old boy."

Three men, aged 17, 18 and 20, have already been arrested and released on bail and now police say they have arrested an 18-year-old local man in connection with the death.

Dr Remzi Tanriverdi, 43, who owns the takeaway close to where the attack took place, said: "I was cleaning when it happened. A boy called my name, put a mobile in my hand and said call the police.

"I saw the English boys attack the Arab boys in the street. There were two fights but I didn't see the second.

"I have been told that they punched him, he fell down, then they kicked him in the head."

Mohammed was a student at EF International Language Schools in White Rock, Hastings.

Fellow student at the school, Abdullah Ababtain, 19, from Saudi Arabia, said foreign pupils were now fearful of further trouble.

He said: "I think what happened is so so bad. All the people when they come to study English next year may not choose here, because there are problems.

"I get scared now. I told my host family I want to stay at home."

Det Chief Insp Graham Pratt, who is leading the investigation, said: "I am appealing for anyone who witnessed the assault to contact police. It was a busy time of the evening and there were many young people in the area. I am sure many of them would have seen what happened.

"The young man was a visitor to Hastings and his death is indeed tragic. Our thoughts are with his family."

Anyone with information, is asked to contact Sussex Police detectives on 0845 60 70 999 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

© Independent Television News Limited 2009. All rights reserved.

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