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Duane Owusu Denies Intent in Death of Zahwa Mukhtar in Old Bailey Testimony

Jurors heard a claim of a push to end a brawl, with prosecutors citing CCTV and medical findings.

Overview

  • Owusu, 36, told the jury he only pushed Zahwa Mukhtar to stop her getting back into an overcrowded Mercedes and said he did not intend to cause harm.
  • In CCTV shown in court, Mukhtar is seen on the pavement as Owusu allegedly kicks out twice; he denies making contact or aiming for her head.
  • He said he threw Mukhtar’s phone to eject her after an argument in the car following a rave, describing her as intoxicated and the situation as escalating.
  • Police later found Mukhtar with a fractured skull and fatal brain injury a short distance from a stop-and-search of the Mercedes, and she was pronounced dead at the scene.
  • Owusu testified that he prayed afterward, contacted his solicitor, and was arrested the next day; he denies murder and the alternative charge of manslaughter as the trial continues.