On the evening of Thursday 5 November 2020, a group of 13 males were seen roaming Moston Lane in Moston. Tensions escalated when they reached Kenyon Lane and brandished weapons including machetes and bats. The gang charged at another group, which included 17-year-old John Soyoye, delivering deadly blows.
Brent Tchipenda engaged in a fight with John, but after John was seriously injured, the smaller group attempted to flee. The larger gang pursued them down Kenyon Lane and onto Birchenall Street. John, slowed and isolated by his wounds, was surrounded by the attackers who subjected him to a brutal assault involving stabbing, slashing, and kicking. Nine men battered him to the ground while recording the savage attack.
Shocked bystanders rushed to John’s aid, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. The gang quickly fled, with some members taking a taxi to Royal Oldham Hospital. Brent Tchipenda sought medical help alone, claiming he was a victim of assault. Meanwhile, other gang members discarded his blood-stained clothes and rucksack elsewhere.
Police arrested Brent Tchipenda on suspicion of murder after doubting his account. Later that month, Francesco Raji, Christopher Semedo, Nelson Correia, Octavio Antonio, and a 16-year-old were also apprehended. Authorities seized phones and clothing from the night of the murder. The victim’s phone contained drill lyrics referencing ‘MD’—John’s nickname—and a video of the attackers boasting about the killing. Octavio Antonio was caught attempting to flee the country at St Pancras station. Ismael Correia was arrested on 23 December 2020.
Following an 11-week trial in late 2021, seven men were sentenced to lengthy prison terms for murder and violent disorder:
- Francesco Raji – 21 years
- Christopher Semedo – 24 years
- Brent Tchipenda – 21 years
- Octavio Antonio – 20 years
- Ismael Correia – 20 and a half years
- Nelson Correia – 23 and a half years
- Unnamed 16-year-old – 16 years
Mohammed Al-Jaf was acquitted of murder but found guilty of manslaughter and violent disorder, with sentencing pending. Five suspects remain at large and are believed to have fled the UK.
Detective Chief Inspector Gareth Davies said: “This was a horrific, violent and senseless assault that cost a young boy his life. No family should have to hear their child was brutally murdered in the street. These sentences bring some justice and closure. Knives ruin lives – for victims and carriers alike. This sends a clear message: carry a knife, and you face serious consequences. GMP will make sure justice is served.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
