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People Write Letters About Henry Nowak Case

June 7, 2026 · The Guardian

Two writers share their thoughts on police actions and how politicians are using the tragedy.

Two people wrote letters to a newspaper about the death of Henry Nowak. Henry Nowak died while police were trying to arrest him. The writers think the police made mistakes and that politicians are using his death in the wrong way.

Savitri Hensman wrote the first letter from London. She thinks the police did not act fast enough to help Henry when he was in trouble. She says officers should check if someone is hurt or sick before they put handcuffs on them. Hensman believes the police need better rules to keep people safe.

Sarmad Ahmad Anwar wrote the second letter from Bradford, West Yorkshire. He is a young British Muslim who feels sad about Henry's death. Anwar is upset that some politicians are using this tragedy to make people angry at certain groups. He says Henry's family has made it clear that his death is not about race or religion.

Both writers agree that politicians should not use Henry's death to push their own ideas. They want people to remember Henry in the right way. The writers think it's wrong when leaders try to make people hate each other because of one person's actions. They believe the focus should be on making sure police treat everyone fairly and safely.

No community should be held responsible for the actions of one individual.

Comprehension quiz preview

1. Who wrote letters to the newspaper about Henry Nowak?

  • ASavitri Hensman and Sarmad Ahmad Anwar
  • BHenry Nowak's family
  • CPolice officers
  • DGovernment officials

2. Where did Sarmad Ahmad Anwar write his letter from?

  • ALondon
  • BBradford, West Yorkshire
  • CBirmingham
  • DManchester

3. What does Henry Nowak's family say about his death?

  • AIt was about religion
  • BIt was about race
  • CIt is not about race or religion
  • DIt was the police's fault

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