Life Sentence for Knife-Wielding Attacker Who Tried to Murder Police Officers in Leicester Square
Mohammed Rahman, 25, from Westbourne Park Road, London, was handed a life sentence on Friday, 8 December at Kingston Crown Court. He must serve at least 20 years for the brutal attempted murder of PC Joe Gerrard and the serious stabbing of PC Alannah Mulhall.
Heroic Officers Fight for Their Lives
Detective Inspector Ollie Stride, who led the probe, said: “Today’s sentencing of Rahman reflects the gravity of his crimes. The bravery of Joe and Alannah, plus swift action from firearms officers, paramedics, and medical staff, stopped a tragedy far worse than it could have been.”
“This was a true team effort—from first responders to specialists and legal teams. I thank everyone involved.”
David Malone, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS London South, added: “This horrific attack shows the courage required to be frontline police. My thoughts are with the injured officers.”
He paid tribute to the Metropolitan Police and prosecution teams for their meticulous work. Malone warned: “This case sends a clear message—carry a knife and harm others, and you will be caught and prosecuted.”
Knife Attack in Leicester Square Sparks Hunt and Arrest
In the early hours of 16 September 2022, two female officers from the Central West Command Unit were on patrol in Leicester Square when a member of the public flagged down police. The man reported being robbed and threatened with a knife by Rahman.
The officers quickly tracked down Rahman, but he refused to cooperate and suddenly attacked, lunging at them before fleeing. The officers gave chase and called for backup.
When additional officers arrived to arrest Rahman, he viciously stabbed PC Mulhall in the upper arm, cutting deep muscle down to bone. Despite repeated attempts to detain him, Rahman struck again, stabbing PC Joe Gerrard five times to the head, arm, and chest.
The chest wound punctured a lung—paramedics’ rapid response was critical in saving PC Gerrard’s life.
A third officer suffered a bleeding finger injury during the scuffle but was less seriously hurt.
Conviction and Aftermath
- On 11 September, Rahman was found guilty of attempted murder, grievous bodily harm with intent, possession of a bladed article, assault, and multiple counts of threatening behaviour.
- He was also convicted of robbing a member of the public.
- The injured officers underwent surgery and have since returned to duty.
A Specialist Crime Command investigation seized CCTV footage and bodycam videos showing Rahman’s violent attacks and capture. Rahman was charged the day after the stabbing and swiftly brought to justice.
This chilling case underlines the dangers officers face on the frontline—and the unyielding determination of the police and justice system to protect the public.
