The United Kingdom Metropolitan Police have confirmed that one of the suspects arrested over the fatal stabbing of Nigerian national John Onetufo in Lewisham, London, has been formally charged with murder.
The development was disclosed in a statement published on the police website on Tuesday.
The PUNCH had earlier reported that Onetufo, 23, was discovered with stab wounds to his chest after police responded to an emergency call on New Year’s Eve.
Despite efforts by paramedics to revive him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Detective Chief Inspector Samantha Townsend, who is leading the investigation, had previously appealed to members of the public to provide any information that could assist the inquiry, assuring that those responsible would be held accountable.
“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 as saying.
In a fresh update, the police disclosed that a 17-year-old boy, whose identity is being withheld due to his age, was charged with murder on Monday and is due to appear before 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.”
Police also confirmed that two other individuals arrested in connection with the case have been released on bail as investigations continue.
“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 added.
