A reward of up to £20,000 awaits anyone with valuable information that will assist in the arrest of the killers of 18-year-old James Akinwande, who was murdered in Brixton on January 16, 1994.
“It has been 31 years since James’ tragic murder, and we are still actively searching for the group of young men involved in this horrific attack. We have not given up hope of securing justice for James’s family and providing them with the answers they so desperately need after such a long and painful wait,” said Detective Superintendent Katherine Goodwin.
She added, “If you were involved in the incident, be aware that we are still looking for you. We are now offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information that leads to the successful charge and conviction of the person or people responsible.”
The detective urged those with relevant information to, “Think back to 1994 – did you attend this music event? Did you witness the attack on James? You may have been younger then and got involved in something you were not comfortable with, or now regret not speaking out about. If you saw or heard anything, then please come forward to talk with us.”
Stressing the importance of finding out what happened on that night 31 years ago, the detective urged those with information about the murder to “do the right thing,” adding that a team of specialist officers is already available to offer their support throughout.
Mr Akinwande was said to have left a music event at Vox nightclub in Brighton Terrace, SW9, with his friends after altercations occurred throughout the event. The altercations prompted them to go home as the nightclub was closing early.
However, around 04:45hrs, the victim was singled out from his friends outside Boots The Chemist, chased by some men, and then beaten and stabbed.
He managed to escape from them after freeing himself from his jacket and ran toward a police van. He collapsed shortly afterwards, prompting officers to administer first aid until an ambulance arrived. He, however, died at King’s College Hospital.
Before his murder, the victim was said to have been wearing a red and dark blue FILA jacket with the FILA logo across the back. This jacket was reportedly stolen on the night of the incident.
