Exchange Chambers barristers prosecute and defend in multi-handed murder trial

October 2, 2019

Barristers from Exchange Chambers have prosecuted and defended in a multi-handed murder trial at Preston Crown Court.

Gordon Cole QC from Exchange Chambers prosecuted four men who murdered a father with a machete in a “vicious, terrifying and sustained attack” following a family feud.

Sajed Choudry died two weeks after being hit on the side of the head in Rhyl Avenue, Blackburn, Lancashire, in November.

Judge Mr Justice Dove said he had been “slashed and chopped by the machete”.

Sadaqat Ali, 36, his brother Rafaqat Ali, 38, their father-in-law Fazal Ilahi, 63, and another man, Syed Ali Akbar, 45, received life sentences following an eight-week trial.

Fazal Ilahi was represented by John Jones QC and Adrian Farrow from Exchange Chambers (instructed by Robert Lizar Solicitors).

Sadaqat Ali, of Rhyl Avenue, who was found guilty of murder and attempted murder was sentenced to a minimum of 32 years for his leading role in the “undoubtedly planned” attack.

Rafaqat Ali and Ilahi, of Tenby Close, and Akbar, of Cedar Street, were found guilty of murder and wounding with intent.

Rafaqat Ali was jailed for a minimum of 28 years and Ilahi and Akbar were jailed for a minimum term of 20 years.