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Triple arrest milestone reached as family prepares for final farewell in Oldbury.
The Smethwick and Oldbury communities are preparing to gather in solemn prayer this weekend as the investigation into the tragic death of 18-year-old Zeshan Afzal sees significant legal developments. West Midlands Police confirmed today that the total number of suspects in custody has risen to three, following the arrest of two more teenagers, aged 16 and 17, on suspicion of murder. This follows the formal charging of a separate 17-year-old earlier this week, who has already appeared before Wolverhampton Magistrates Court.
Read Also: Triple Arrest Milestone: Two More Teenagers Detained in Zeshan Afzal Murder Probe
Final Rites and Janazah Details
The Afzal family has officially announced the Janazah (funeral) arrangements for Zeshan, inviting the community to offer their final respects and prayers. The Janazah Salaah is scheduled for Sunday, 1st March 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Oldbury Jamia Masjid, located on Oldbury Road (B66 1NJ). Following the prayers, the burial will take place at 1:00 PM at Fallings Heath Cemetery on Bee Bee Road, Wednesbury (WS10 9RX). Zeshan, the son of Muhammad Afzal and nephew of Muhammad Aslam and Ali Aksar, is remembered by his family as a bright light whose life was cut short during the sacred month of Ramadan.
Investigation Intensifies with New Detentions
Homicide detectives have significantly expanded the scope of their inquiry over the last 24 hours. While one teenager remains remanded in secure youth detention facing a murder charge, the two latest suspects were apprehended in the Sandwell area following a meticulous review of CCTV and "digital footprints." Police are currently analyzing encrypted communication data to determine if the disorder on Oldbury Road, which occurred just before 9:00 PM on February 20, was a premeditated encounter. Two other victims, aged 19 and 22, have since been discharged from the hospital and are assisting officers with the ongoing probe.
Next Steps in the Judicial Process
As the community gathers for the funeral, the legal case moves into a critical phase. The Crown Prosecution Service is expected to review the evidence against all three detainees to establish a joint trial timeline. Forensic teams continue to search specific areas near Smethwick Galton Bridge, including the canal network, as they seek to recover the weapon used in the attack. A heightened police presence remains in the Oldbury and Smethwick areas to provide reassurance to residents during this period of mourning and active investigation.
