A TEENAGER is facing life imprisonment after being convicted of the “vicious” murder of Hassan Mohammed in Southend.

Tajwar Alam, 19, was told by Judge Charles Gratwicke at Chelmsford Crown Court this afternoon he should prepare for a long time behind bars, as the only sentence he could deliver was life imprisonment.

He said: “You have been convicted by this jury of the vicious killing of Hassan Mohammed.

“You should prepare yourself for a long prison sentence.

"As you know, the only sentence I can pass upon you is of life imprisonment.

“You should resign yourself to that.

“You may go down.”

Alam was convicted of the 26-year-old’s murder by a majority of ten of 12 jurors after being recalled at 3.10pm following 16 hours and 14 minutes’ deliberation.

Mr Ibrahim's family said: "Not only was Hassan a loving partner, son, brother, grandson, nephew and uncle, he was a friend to so many people in the community.

"Nothing has been the same since he died. So many hearts have been broken and we as a family still grieve for his loss. The neighbourhood also remains in shock at his passing.

"Hassan was a very kind person who was full of life. He was funny, caring and understanding.

"It has been very difficult for us to attend court every day to listen to the distressing details of what happened to him.

"All we have wanted is for justice to be served on behalf of Hassan."

Mr Ibrahim was stabbed twice in the back by Alam in York Road on July 7 last year and died the following day, at the Royal London Hospital, after being flown by air ambulance.

Police have released a lengthly statement following the conviction.

DCI Simon Werrett, of the Kent and Essex serious crime directorate, said: "This was an incident that resulted in the needless death of a young man.

"I would like to thank all those witnesses who came forward and gave evidence, demonstrating their commitment to improve their community.

"The defendant, who has never shown any remorse, will have plenty of time to reflect on his actions in prison.

"This is now an opportunity for Hassan’s family to try and move on with their lives.”

Five other men who were charged in connection with Hassan’s murder were acquitted and formally dismissed during the trial. They will face no further action.

Alam will be sentenced on June 19.