£20k reward in quest to resolve 1994 murder

Detectives are offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information to bring to justice the killers of a teenager in Brixton 31 years ago.

In the early hours of Sunday, 16 January 1994, 18-year-old James Akinwande left Vox nightclub in Brighton Terrace, SW9, following a music event with his friends.

There were reports that altercations had taken place throughout the event, prompting James and his friends to leave and go home as the nightclub was closing early.

At around 04:45hrs, James was singled out from his friends outside Boots The Chemist in Brixton Road. He was chased by a large group of young men before they beat and stabbed him.

James managed to escape the group after getting loose from his jacket and ran towards a police van that was parked in Brixton Road. He collapsed and was given first aid by the officers before the ambulance arrived. He was taken to King’s College Hospital where he sadly died.

Detective Superintendent Katherine Goodwin said: “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.

“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.

“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. It is really important we find out what happened on that night, 31 years ago.

“We have a team of specialist officers who will support you throughout, please do the right thing.”

James’ family are also appealing for information.

They said: “In 1994, our family experienced an unimaginable loss when James was tragically murdered at just 18 years old.

“James was a light in our lives. He was generous, endlessly funny and filled with a positivity that brightened every room he entered.

“His laugh, his energy and his love for life are deeply missed every single day. The perpetrators of this senseless act tore a void in our family that can never be filled.

“His mother, devastated by the loss of her son, has never been the same and finds it too painful to even visit his grave. The impact of James' absence is felt in every moment, and we continue to grieve the life he was so cruelly denied.”

A post-mortem examination revealed that the cause of death was due to stab wounds to the chest and left arm.

On the night of James’ death, he was wearing a distinct red and dark blue FILA jacket. Half of the jacket was red and the other half was dark blue. The FILA logo was across the back of the jacket. This jacket was stolen on the night of the attack and remains missing.

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is asked to call 101 quoting Operation Poldark or CAD1203/16Jan25. You can also call the incident room on 0208 785 8267.

To remain anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.