The United Kingdom Metropolitan Police has said it charged one of the suspects arrested in connection with the stabbing incident that led to the death of a Nigerian, John Onetufo, in the Lewisham area of London on New Year’s Eve with murder.
This was contained in a statement obtained from the UK police website on Tuesday.
PUNCH Metro had reported on Monday that the 23-year-old Onetufo was found with stab wounds to his chest following a distress call to the police.
Paramedics who arrived at the scene were said to have tried their best to save him, but despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Detective Chief Inspector Samantha Townsend, who led the investigation, had appealed to the public for any useful information about the incident to come forward.
Townsend noted that the police would ensure the perpetrators were brought to justice.
“My team has worked relentlessly over recent days to pursue every line of enquiry, and I can confirm that two arrests have now been made in connection with this tragic incident.
“This is a significant development, but our investigation remains ongoing as we work to establish the full circumstances surrounding what happened.
“I want to extend my deepest sympathies to John’s family and friends. We remain committed to finding answers and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice,” Townsend was earlier quoted.
Giving an update, the statement noted that a 17-year-old boy, who could not be named because of his age, was charged with murder on Monday and is scheduled to appear at the Bromley Magistrates’ Youth Court.
The statement read, “A 17-year-old boy has been charged with murder following a fatal stabbing in Grove Street, Lewisham, on Wednesday, 31 December.
“The boy, who cannot be named because of his age, was charged with murder on Monday, 5 January. He will appear at Bromley Magistrates’ Youth Court on Monday, 5 January.”
The statement noted that two other suspects arrested alongside the teenager were granted bail pending the ongoing investigation.
“Along with the 17-year-old boy, a 23-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder on Friday, 2 January. He has since been bailed while enquiries continue.
“An 18-year-old woman was also arrested on Sunday, 4 January, on suspicion of perverting the course of justice. She has been bailed while enquiries continue,” the statement noted.
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