Hastings Inspector Martin Mann said: "Crime against students is particularly low this year.

"We have had a reduction. We have been working closely with our partners and the language schools.

"In the last two weeks we have had three reported assaults on students which have been very minor such as pushing and shoving.

Commenting on Mohammed's death which following fighting between students and local youths outside a seafront kebab shop, he said: "I believe this is an isolated incident which may or may not have been racially motivated. It's very tragic."

He added: "There were officers on the scene almost immediately the lad was found on the ground. It's a heavily patrolled area.

"As a result of this assault we have increase patrols generally and for reassurance at social events for foreign students."

Police have confirmed that patrolling officers did speak to youths outside the kebab shop before the disturbance occurred and were satisfied no further action was required as no offences were being committed.