Early release of murderer's mother would be 'significant blow' to Henry Nowak's family – police chief

The mother of Vickrum Digwa, the man convicted of murdering 18-year-old Henry Nowak, could be released from prison before completing her sentence, according to police officials. This potential early release has been called a "significant blow" to Nowak's family by Donna Jones, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Kiran Kaur, Digwa’s mother, was jailed for three years in July for removing the knife used in the murder from the crime scene and taking it to the family home. She is currently appealing her sentence, with a Court of Appeal hearing scheduled for 5 November. Under the government’s early release scheme, Kaur could be freed around the anniversary of Nowak’s death, which occurred on 3 December 2025. Jones expressed concern that Kaur’s early release would raise doubts about the integrity of the criminal justice system. She stated she would contact Justice Secretary Alex Norris to seek clarity on the situation. Jones argued that Kaur does not occupy a prison bed that could be used for individuals posing greater threats to public safety. Kaur, an Indian national, might become eligible for deportation after her release. The Home Office did not comment on specific cases but reiterated its condolences for Nowak’s family. Digwa received a life sentence with a minimum term of 21 years in June for the murder. During Kaur’s sentencing, Judge William Mousley KC criticized her decision to hide the murder weapon instead of confronting her son. Approximately 5,000 prisoners are set to be released in stages over the coming year, following ministerial intervention to exclude certain offenders. Recent releases included 650 criminals earlier this week, just days after another batch of 700 were freed.