Man found guilty of manslaughter after fatal stabbing at New Year party in Rochdale

Wednesday, 3 September 2025 15:40

By David Murphy

A man has been convicted of manslaughter and a woman found guilty of perverting the course of justice following the death of 38-year-old Alberto Ursu at a New Year party in Rochdale.

A Greater Manchester Police investigation has led to two convictions after Alberto Ursu was fatally stabbed during a house party on Essex Street in the early hours of 1 January 2025.

Emergency services responded to reports of a violent disturbance just after midnight, where they found Mr Ursu with multiple stab wounds. Despite efforts by paramedics, he was later pronounced dead in hospital.

Detectives from GMP’s Major Incident Team launched a comprehensive investigation, which concluded that Hassan Suliman, 31, of Rothesay Terrace, had been involved in a confrontation with Mr Ursu during the party. Both men sustained injuries, and Suliman fled the scene, later found collapsed nearby.

During the trial, it emerged that 29-year-old Karla Pokutova, who hosted the party, attempted to hide evidence by concealing three bloodstained knives behind a radiator in her home. CCTV footage showed Pokutova handling one of the knives, and a witness reported hearing her urge others not to speak to police.

Forensic evidence linked the recovered knives to both Suliman and Mr Ursu.

Both Suliman and Pokutova denied the charges. However, following the trial, Suliman was found guilty of manslaughter. He was acquitted of all other charges. Pokutova was convicted of perverting the course of justice. Suliman remains in custody while Pokutova has been released on bail ahead of sentencing, which is due to take place on 14 November 2025.

Detective Inspector Paul Davies, who led the investigation, described the case as “tragic and senseless”, adding that knife crime continues to cause lasting devastation across Greater Manchester.

He said: “Our investigation uncovered a chaotic and violent scene, but through forensic evidence, CCTV and witness accounts, we were able to piece together what happened and bring those responsible to justice.

“We hope this outcome brings some measure of closure to Alberto’s family.”