Life Sentence for Slough Man in Brutal Murder of Teen
Suleman Altaf, sentenced to life with a minimum of 30 years before parole, has been convicted for the savage killing of 15-year-old Jakub Szymanski and the attempted murder of Jakub’s mother, Katarzyna Bastek.
Chilling Pre-Attack Surveillance Captured
On June 9, 2022, Altaf turned up at his estranged ex-partner Katarzyna’s home on Bednal Avenue, Miles Platting. CCTV showed him lurking around the area for over three hours. He was disguised in a baseball cap, surgical mask, and latex gloves — clearly plotting his attack.
Knife Rampage Ends in Tragedy
Inside the house, Altaf launched a violent knife assault on Katarzyna. Young Jakub leapt to defend his mother but was fatally stabbed in the neck during the struggle. After a frenzied two-minute attack, Altaf fled, taking a taxi to Slough before attempting a desperate escape by dinghy across the English Channel.
Dinghy Escape Foiled at Sea
Just four miles offshore on June 10, lifeboat crews intercepted Altaf, stopping his plans to reach France and then Portugal. He was arrested and returned to Manchester for trial.
Victim’s Harrowing Court Testimony
Katarzyna told the court how she spotted a shadow before Altaf appeared wielding the knife. Despite severe injuries — including nine stab wounds, facial fractures, chest damage, and a collapsed lung — she bravely summoned help. Altaf briefly turned his fury on Jakub before resuming his brutal assault on her.
Police Praise Victim’s Courage
Senior Investigating Officer Philip Reade called the attack “extremely vicious, frenzied, and targeted.” He praised Katarzyna’s resilience and offered condolences to the family. “We hope this sentencing helps them start healing and mourning in peace,” he said.
