Family of Cameron Brooksbank pay tribute after his story appears in BBC documentary

The family of Cameron Brooksbank, who was the victim of an axe attack in Rochdale in October 2017 have paid tribute to him after his story was featured on a BBC documentary this week.

During the three-part series called The Detectives, Taking Down an OCG, a team of GMP officers attempt to bring down the Adam gang in Rochdale. The first episode of the show opens with the aftermath of horrific attack on 17-year-old Cameron whose hand was almost severed by an axe.

The series follows the trial of the men involved and after the first trial results in a hung jury, there is a second trial at which a new witness gives crucial evidence resulting in the sentencing of four men.

Cameron's attacker Mohammed Awais Sajid was sentenced to 18 years in prison for conspiracy to commit violent disorder and section 18 wounding with intent.
 

Read more: Four men jailed for brutal gang axe attack which left a man with life-changing injuriesPublished: 18 October 2019

 

At the end of the final episode of the documentary, the audience was told that Cameron had sadly died earlier this year at just 24 years old.

Cameron's family have released a statement paying tribute to Cameron and the officers who supported him.

"This has been the most terrible time for our family, but we are just one that are being supported by GMP, who are constantly being destroyed by these cruel, merciless drug gangs.

"Everyone can see first-hand how these members proactively target children into drug misuse and debt to become modern-day slaves.

"Also, the bravery of the officers who put their lives on the line must never be taken for granted; they have been so caring and comforting.

"Martin, Mark and their team have been wonderful, so we want to thank all concerned for everything they have done for our family and the wider borough. We thank them for their tenderness with Cameron who was only 17 at the time of the attack and the subsequent friendships that followed.

"People in dependency need medical and social support, but if you are a recreational misuser, please try to reflect and understand not only the dangers you put yourselves in, but also the dangers for so many others in the supply chain.

"We’d also like to thank the public for all the many kind words and praise for our special son and grandson, Cameron whose passing has created such a huge and painful void in our lives.

"As you can see in the episodes, we have been supported throughout by officers and programme makers Lou and Ben from Minnow Films, regardless of the successes in the courtroom and have carried us throughout this tragic and frightening journey. We will remain eternally grateful for the rest of our lives.

"Thank you so much for everything and the support you all continue to give us through this difficult period. We are extremely proud of Cameron’s bravery and that his personal story will hopefully help raise some much needed awareness around this topic."

The Detectives, Taking Down an OCG is available to watch on iPlayer.