'˜Our family is now broken' '“ Tipu Sultan's heartbroken brother speaks after men jailed for his killing

The Sunderland dad was gunned down outside the family-run takeaway in South Shields in April last year.

Michael McDougal, 47, of Hylton Avenue, South Shields, was today found guilty of murder and sentenced to life with a minimum of 34 years, while Michael Mullen, 25, of Hawthorne Avenue, South Shields, was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to 12 years.

Mahsum Sultan said: "This has been the most difficult year for our family. The violent way in which Tipu was taken from us has changed our lives beyond recognition.

"Our family is now broken and the pain felt by his loss cannot be put into words.

"We will always remember Tipu as the wonderful father, son, brother and husband he was. We all talk about Tipu to his children every day and they will always know how much he loved them and cared for them.

"It brings us all some happiness to be around the children who have their father's looks and personality.

"As a family, we would all like to thank all the witnesses that have come forward in this case, in particular the young witnesses who gave evidence. We know this must have been very difficult for you all but we are hugely grateful for your contribution to today's verdict.

"We have been praying for justice and today we welcome the outcome. It brings a small amount of closure and peace of mind to help us move on with our lives."