Family tell of their fear after shooting

Sep 5 2009 by Rob Pattinson, The Journal

THE family of a businessman shot in exclusive Darras Hall told last night of their anguish as they continue their vigil at his bedside.

Amjed Malik was targeted by masked attackers while he visited a close friend in the neighbourhood in Ponteland, Northumberland.

Releasing the first picture of the 31-year-old, his family said last night they are now living in fear.

Mr Malik remains under close guard at Newcastle’s General Hospital where he is due to undergo further operations on the section of his hit by a double-barrelled shotgun.

Family members have been allowed in to visit him and his mother has kept a constant vigil at his bedside while he recovers.

Doctors have been unable to say when married Mr Malik will be discharged.

His loved ones believe even when the accident claims business owner is allowed out he will struggle to feel safe after falling victim to the attack.

A family member, who asked not to be named said: “Our whole family is so frightened after what happened. The whole situation has been so difficult for us. We’ve never experienced anything like this before.

“Amjed’s mother hasn’t left his bedside since it happened. She has been scared for him. The idea of guns being used on your family is barbaric. We are religious and we don’t believe in violence like this.

“Amjed is improving but he’s still not talking much. His leg is going to be OK, but he still has to have more operations. He’s very shocked, and of course frightened for his life.

“I feel bad for the community. No-one wants this to be happening where they live. I see people walking around in twos and threes because they don’t feel safe. That’s not right.

“Our whole family just wants everything sorting out. Even when Amjed gets out of hospital I don’t know how he’s going to feel safe.”