Djeison Rafael: Man charged with attempted murder after woman stabbed in the neck in centre of Birmingham

A man has been charged with attempted murder after a woman was stabbed in the neck in Birmingham city centre.

West Midlands Police says Djeison Rafael, a black British national, also faces charges related to two further assaults and possession of a blade.

The force is continuing to appeal for anyone with information to come forward - and says the 21-year-old was wearing a grey tracksuit, black hat, trainers and a rucksack.

Officers were called to Smallbrook Queensway shortly before 9pm on Friday after receiving reports of a stabbing.

The victim - a woman in her 30s - was taken to hospital in a critical condition with a serious neck injury.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has thanked the police's "swift efforts" to arrest a suspect and urged witnesses to call 101.

She wrote on X last night: "I am shocked to hear a woman was stabbed in Birmingham in an unprovoked attack.

"My thoughts are with the victim, her family and friends."

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Rafael is due to appear before magistrates in Birmingham on Monday.

West Midlands Police added: "We are continuing our inquiries and are keen to hear from anyone who knows more about what happened or the movements of Rafael."

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