Walsall Council to 'review procedures' in wake of Southport stabbing

Councillor Garry Perry, leader of Walsall Council, has ordered a fresh review of its procedures after it emerged opportunities had been misses which might have prevented Axel Rudakubana from murdering three young girls at a Taylor Swift themed dance event in the seaside town.

Rudakubana, who was 17 at the time of the attack in July last year, was yesterday (Thursday) sentenced to a minimum 52 years in prison.

Liverpool Crown Court was told that Rudakubana was known to Lancashire Constabulary, and had been referred to the Prevent anti-extremism programme on three separate occasions, on each occasion been declared not to be a threat.

Councillor Perry said in the light of these concerns, he had ordered a full review of Walsall's processes to ensure everything possible was being done to safeguard the community from the risks of radicalisation and extremism.

“I have asked for assurances that the necessary checks and balances are in place and that we are fully compliant with our legal duties," he said.

“This includes a detailed update on how referrals have been managed, the outcomes achieved, and whether improvements are needed.

“Protecting our residents and ensuring no opportunities are missed to intervene early must be a priority."

He said it was also vital that the Government provided sufficient support and funding to help local authorities meet their responsibilities effectively.

“Walsall deserves nothing less than the highest standards when it comes to the safety and security of our borough," Councillor Perry added.

"I will continue to hold central government to account to ensure this remains the case.

“We must learn lessons from past failures elsewhere and ensure Walsall is a place where people feel safe, supported, and protected.”