Hundreds of people gathered at a mosque today for the emotional funeral service of tragic teen Azzam Raguragui.
The 18 year-old was fatally stabbed in Finsbury Park in Dundrum, Dublin on May 10.
It is believed he was was returning from prayers in a local mosque, with a group of friends when he got into an argument with a gang of youths who had earlier stolen his bike.
Grief-stricken mourners -and many of Azzam’s close friends - began to gather at Clonskeagh mosque from 11.30am on Friday.
There were poignant embraces with heartbroken parents, father Abdurrahman and mother Hajoba as pals filed around the coffin and wept.
The young man, who was the second eldest of three children, was described as someone who was ambitious, fun-loving and had a beaming smile.
Abdurrahman and Hajoba, who are originally from Morocco, said they are putting their “faith in the Irish justice system to hold the perpetrator(s) to account”.
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Minister for Transport Shane Ross was among the mourners, while Garda Superintendent Martin McGonnell from the Blackrock district also attended.
He confirmed after the service that gardaí are following a definite line of inquiry and they believe the evil attack was not racially motivated.
Abdurrahman said he was keen to thank the local community and the gardaí for their support during the last week.
No arrests have yet been made.
Imam Sheikh Halawa led the funeral service and afterwards Azzam’s remains were taken to Newcastle Cemetery for burial.
The Irish Sufi Foundation described Azzam as a “a kind courteous, respectful and cheerful young man”.
It added: “He was bright, talented and ambitious with aspirations to become a successful entrepreneur. Such a tragic loss.”
