Greater Manchester Police have issued a statement after Habibur Masum was arrested in the investigation into the murder of Kulsuma Akter

Officers are continuing to patrol Oldham and carry out “reassurance visits” after a suspect was arrested following the death of a mother in Bradford.

Kulsuma Akter was stabbed to death in broad daylight in the Westgate area of ​​the West Yorkshire town on Saturday (April 6). The 27-year-old, from Oldham, was pushing her baby in a pram at the time, although the child was unharmed.

A huge manhunt was launched to find her alleged killer before a man, from Oldham, was arrested on suspicion of her murder in the early hours of this morning (April 9). The 25-year-old was arrested in the Aylesbury area.

READ THE FOLLOWING: Oldham man arrested on suspicion of Kulsuma Akter’s murder

The Manchester Evening News understands that the arrested man is Habibur Masum, who since Saturday has been the subject of appeals to the police. A spokesman for the force confirmed that officers were no longer looking for him.

In a social media post following news of the arrest, Greater Manchester Police said increased patrols were continuing in the Oldham area. Officers are also carrying out “community reassurance visits” with anyone involved urged to speak to them.

GMP said in a Facebook post: “Following the arrest of a 25-year-old man on suspicion of murdering Kulsuma Akter in Bradford, we are continuing with increased patrols in the #Oldham area as well as community reassurance visits.

“Anyone with concerns is encouraged to speak to our local officers. Our thoughts continue to be with Kulsuma’s loved ones at this time.”

Both Greater Manchester Police and West Yorkshire Police approached the Independent Police Conduct Office because of “previous contact” with the victim. A 23-year-old man was also arrested in connection with the incident, being suspected of assisting a criminal.

He remains in police custody. Chief Inspector Stacey Atkinson, of West Yorkshire Police’s Homicide and Investigation Team, said: “This is a tragic incident where a mother has lost her life in the most horrific of circumstances.

“We understand this has caused considerable concern in the local community. Local neighborhood policing teams patrol the area to secure the community.

“We would like to thank Thames Valley Police for their support and assistance in this matter.”

Information which could assist the investigation should be reported to Cheshire Police via online chat or by calling 101, quoting log 1071 of April 6. Information can always be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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