Police descend on Kimberley Street and Pearson Street in murder probe

Cordons are in place on Kimberley Street, off Leeds Road, and police activity is also focused on nearby Pearson Street. When the T&A visited today, there were no fewer than five seperate cordons in place at several locations.

A door on a property within one of the cordons has been sawn in two, presumably to allow police to gain entry.

Police in Kimberley Street on Friday morning (Image: T&A)

Meanwhile, officers with search poles were seen on an unmade backstreet off Pearson Street, where another cordon has been set up.

The intense police activity in Kimberley Street and Pearson Street comes as police investigating the death of Luqman Ishfaq revealed that further arrests have been made.

Police conducting searches on a backstreet off Pearson Street (Image: T&A)

A murder probe was launched after Mr Ishfaq, 23, was stabbed on Barlow Street, Barkerend, Bradford, on Monday night.

Further tributes have been paid, including from Adil Afzal, a cousin and classmate of Mr Ishfaq at both primary school and Laisterdyke Leadership Academy Secondary School.

Mr Afzal, of Bradford, said: “Luqman was a beacon of warmth, known for his infectious smile and unwavering kindness.

“He had a rare ability to make everyone around him feel seen, heard, and valued.

Luqman Ishfaq (Image: West Yorkshire Police)

“Whether it was through a quiet conversation with a stranger or a comforting word to a friend, Luqman possessed an innate empathy that touched lives in ways that can never be quantified.

“His presence brought a unique light to the world, and now, in his absence, it feels as though the world is a little darker.

“His ability to lift others, even when he himself might have been struggling, was a testament to the kind of person he was—selfless, compassionate, and full of heart.

“I knew Luqman my entire life—we grew up together. From primary school to secondary, through college, and as cousins, we shared countless moments and memories.

“Over the years, I came to see him not just as family but as someone who helped me through my most difficult times.

“His support during my struggles with mental health was invaluable. Luqman was always there with a kind word, a listening ear, and unwavering patience.

“He had an extraordinary gift for making you feel understood, and his strength helped me overcome some of the toughest battles in my life.

"His presence gave me hope, and for that, I will be forever grateful.

“In his tragic loss, I urge the community to remain strong, to come together in peace and harmony, and to continue having faith in Allah.

“Life is fleeting, and as Luqman always reminded me, we should make the most of every moment we have.

“In these difficult times, it’s important that we do not let grief and anger divide us but instead use this moment to reflect on the fragility of life.

“We must honour Luqman’s memory by embodying the kindness, generosity and love that he showed all of us. This is a time for unity, not division.

“Let us hold on to faith, for it is through faith in Allah that we find comfort and strength in the most challenging of times."

He said Mr Ishfaq's death has "shattered not just his family and friends but the entire community". 

“We pray that Luqman be raised to the highest rank of Jannah and that Allah forgives his shortcomings," said Mr Afzal. 

“May his soul find peace, and may we all take from his life the lesson that our time here is brief - so let us live with purpose, compassion and a heart full of faith. Ameen.

"Sleep tight soldier. Gone but never forgotten Luqy."