ZAID MUHAMMAD FROM DUNFERMLINE CAUGHT IN STALKING INCIDENT NEAR LOCHGELLY AND COWDENBEATH

A disturbing case of stalking involving Zaid Muhammad, a 27-year-old man from Dunfermline, has come to light following his appearance at Dunfermline Sheriff Court for sentencing. The incident revolves around his persistent and unwelcome attention towards a woman, which took place over a span of several days and involved multiple intrusive behaviors.

According to court reports, Muhammad’s actions began after he delivered food to the woman’s home, ostensibly through a ‘Just Eat’ order. However, it was later revealed that he fabricated the delivery in order to initiate contact with her. On one occasion, he made a false delivery attempt, claiming to have food for her, despite her telling him she had not ordered anything. This occurred on Christmas Eve around 10 pm, when Muhammad appeared at her door with food, only to be turned away. He then produced a receipt claiming she had placed the order, but she firmly told him to leave.

The situation escalated on New Year’s Day. The woman had gone to a nearby shop and upon returning home, she noticed Zaid Muhammad following her. CCTV footage confirmed that Muhammad had been waiting in a car outside her residence on Dundas Street in Lochgelly and had followed her as she returned. As she ascended the stairs to her flat, he was behind her in the close. She approached her door, asked if he was alright, and he responded that he was lonely and simply wanted to see her again. He then asked if he could come inside her home, but she refused. Muhammad also inquired if she remembered him bringing food to her door, to which he replied, “I did that to see you.”

Following these events, the woman was visibly distressed and crying as she confided in her partner about Muhammad’s behavior. When her partner went to the door, Muhammad apologized and left the scene. The woman’s account indicates that Muhammad’s actions were driven by feelings of loneliness and cultural adjustment issues, which he cited as reasons for his behavior. He explained to the court that he was experiencing a difficult time, including mental health struggles and the aftermath of a challenging relationship. His defense solicitor, Amy Harley, highlighted that Muhammad was currently unemployed and on a visa to complete his education. She also emphasized that he felt isolated and disconnected following his move to Scotland, which contributed to his actions. However, she clarified that Muhammad was not making excuses but was seeking companionship and human connection.

Judge James Hastie decided to place Muhammad on a structured deferred sentence, with a return to court scheduled for 28th May. Additionally, Muhammad was ordered to adhere to a non-harassment order for one year. The court was informed that the victim has since moved to a different residence, likely in an effort to escape the ongoing distress caused by Muhammad’s stalking behavior.