Two still held over city murder

Kalan Kawa Karim had moved to Mount Pleasant in Swansea

Police have been given extra time to question two men arrested in connection with the murder of an Iraqi Kurdish man in Swansea.

Kalan Kawa Karim, a 29-year-old refugee, was assaulted on the Kingsway on Monday. He later died in hospital.

Officers have said Mr Karim, who had lost a leg below the knee, was the victim of an unprovoked and racist attack.

Police had until 2200BST to question the two men, who were arrested on Friday.

Hundreds of people attended a vigil in the city on Saturday in protest at the murder.

I am pleased to report that no disturbances occurred Chief Inspector Ray Bignell

Sarkat Junad, 30, Mr Karim's best friend, has said that the killing had shocked the city's close-knit Kurdish community.

Mr Junad said: "It went very well, lots of people turned up. We were very surprised."

He said Mr Karim would have been "so glad" at the number of supporters.

A minute's silence was held and many people brought pictures of Mr Karim. Flowers were also laid.

Appeal

Police estimate the vigil, outside the Potters Wheel pub near where the attack happened, attracted two to three hundred people.

Many people brought pictures of Mr Karim to the protest

Chief Inspector Ray Bignell said it passed off peacefully.

"We planned an appropriate and sensitive policing response to ensure the safety and security of the crowd gathered to pay their respects," he said.

"We were also mindful that a football match was taking place in the city, which is already busy on a Saturday afternoon with shoppers.

"Our intention was to ensure that the event was not disrupted and I am pleased to report that no disturbances occurred and no arrests were made."

On Saturday detectives also repeated their appeal for anyone with information about the assault to come forward.

In particular they would like to speak to a man who was seen on CCTV at around 2344BST on Sunday 7 September, at a bus stop near McDonalds restaurant on the Kingsway.

'Tremendous support'

A minute silence was held for Mr Karim

He is described as possibly of dark European appearance, with shoulder length dark hair and a goatee beard.

He was wearing a beige top with red arms and blue jeans. He is thought to be in his twenties.

They have also said they are still trying to find two more men who were at the scene at around 0130 BST on Monday.

Police have praised the "tremendous" support they have had from people in Swansea since the murder.

"It shows that the communities here are as eager to find the culprit as us," said Acting Chief Superintendent Cliff Filer, divisional commander of Swansea.

"It reflects that Swansea people do not approve of any anti-social behaviour or racism in the city."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Cockett police station on 01792 456 999 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.