http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/UK-News/Three-Men-Arrested-Over-Murder-Of-Sukhwinder-Singh-Who-Was-Stabbed-As-He-Chased-Suspected-Robbers/

11:08pm UK, Wednesday January 13, 2010

Adam Arnold, Sky News Online

Three men have been arrested by police investigating the murder of a man who was killed after chasing suspected robbers in east London.

Sukhwinder Singh died from a stab wound to the heart after he confronted them in Barking, east London, last Friday.

Mr Singh, 31, chased the two suspected robbers after witnessing them snatch a woman's handbag in Loxford Road as she walked home from Barking station.

Police said Mr Singh ran after them for 50 to 70 metres along Victoria Road into Uphall Road, where it is believed an altercation took place and he was stabbed.

Officers said it was not known at this stage in which direction the suspects then went from Uphall Road.

Following the attack, Mr Singh, from Barking, was taken to the Royal London Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

The stolen handbag has not been recovered.

It is described as brown leather with a light and dark brown pattern, 10-12 inches in length with two side zips, one straight and one curved, and two straps with a buckle on one.

Detectives are still appealing for witnesses and information over the murder.

DCI Clayman said: "We need to hear from anybody who witnessed the initial robbery, the actual stabbing and anyone who may have seen suspects running away from the Uphall Road area, or perhaps discarding property in the vicinity.

"I wish to encourage member of the public to come forward and speak to police - no matter how insignificant they may feel their information is.

"If they have fears regarding speaking to police, I assure them that we can allay those fears."

Anyone who can help should call the incident room on 020 8345 3775. If you wish to remain anonymous please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.