Another Tragic Loss: Europe's Open Border Policies Leave an Innocent Child Dead

Once again, Europe faces the grim consequences of open borders and lax immigration policies. The brutal murder of eight-year-old Malika Noor Al Katib in New Ross, Ireland, is a heartbreaking reminder of a broken system that endangers its most vulnerable. This innocent child lost her life in an unimaginable act of violence—stabbed in her family home by a man who should never have been there in the first place.

Malika’s killer, identified as her father, Mohammad Shaker Al Tamimi, has been charged with her murder and the attempted murder of her mother, Aisha Al Katib, during a violent altercation. This act of unimaginable brutality, reportedly stemming from an argument over social media, unfolded as Malika tried to protect her mother.

The suspect, a 34-year-old foreign national, had previously served prison time in the UK for fraud. Despite his criminal record, he returned to Ireland without restriction or oversight, ultimately committing this horrific act. Arrested shortly after the incident, he was charged and brought before a special sitting of Gorey District Court, where he made no reply to the charges. Judge Kevin Staunton remanded him into custody and directed that he undergo a psychological evaluation, and an Arabic translator has been requested for his appearance on Monday.

A System That Enables Tragedy

The circumstances surrounding Malika’s murder shine a glaring spotlight on the failings of Ireland’s immigration and justice systems.

Despite his criminal record, the man was allowed to reintegrate into a community without sufficient supervision or safeguards. His violent tendencies were tragically unleashed on his own family, resulting in Malika’s death and leaving her mother hospitalized. This tragedy could and should have been prevented.

Imam Rashid Munir of the Waterford Al-Munir Islamic Centre shared the profound grief of Malika’s mother, describing her as “not in very good shape at the moment.” Speaking to RTÉ, he said: “She witnessed her child being murdered in front of her eyes, and that is not easy.”

Malika’s mother, who is recovering in the hospital from injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening, continues to endure unimaginable pain.

Reflecting on Malika’s life, Imam Munir described her as a “lovely child” and a “beautiful girl” who regularly attended the Islamic Centre. “She was like any eight-year-old—always smiling and full of curiosity. She showed great interest in learning about Islam and excelled in her studies,” he said. “She wanted to integrate into the community and aspired to achieve something extraordinary.”

When Will Leaders Face the Consequences?

The Irish people—and all of Europe—are demanding answers:

• Why are individuals with known criminal histories allowed to return without strict oversight?
• Why are foreign nationals not deported following their criminal convictions?
• Why are citizens’ safety routinely sacrificed on the altar of political correctness and open-border ideologies?

Justice Minister Helen McEntee has called the incident “extremely tragic,” but words without action ring hollow. The blood of innocent children like Malika is on the hands of leaders who refuse to implement meaningful border controls and enforce deportation for criminal offenders.

The Cost of Inaction

This is not an isolated case. Across Europe, similar tragedies continue to occur—lives lost, families destroyed—all because of policies that prioritize the rights of criminals and migrants over the safety of the greater community.

The European people deserve leaders who will:

• Enforce Stronger Borders: Stop the reckless policies that enable unchecked migration and ensure rigorous vetting of all entrants.
• Deport Criminals: Foreign nationals who commit crimes must be immediately expelled with no second chances.
• Prioritize Safety: Children like Malika should not pay the price for political cowardice.

A Mother’s Agony, A Nation’s Rage

As Alisha grieves for her daughter, she also faces the heartbreaking task of preparing for Malika’s burial. The community in New Ross, and indeed the entire nation of Ireland, mourns the senseless loss of this innocent child.

Malika Noor Al Katib’s death must not be in vain. Let her name serve as a rallying cry for justice, accountability, and the urgent need to end policies that continue to put innocent lives at risk.

Enough is enough. If leaders refuse to act, then it is time for the people to demand new leadership—leadership that values the safety and security above all else.