A violent offender, Lekan Akinsoji, has been sentenced for fatally stabbing a gang rival in a liquor store and subsequently pursuing additional victims with a shotgun while disguised in a clown mask. Akinsoji, 27, is affiliated with the North Newham gang known for a history of violent crimes in east London. In a previous incident in 2019, he engaged in a shootout with armed officers.
Akinsoji received a life sentence with a minimum term of 28 years for the murder of Ahmed Deen Jah in 2017. During the trial at the Old Bailey in central London, the prosecutor described the chilling scene, likening Akinsoji’s appearance to a clown from the movie “Heat.” The victim, Ahmed Deen Jah, was a prominent member of the Custom House gang, while Akinsoji belonged to the Woodrange gang.
Despite initially denying the murder charges, Akinsoji and an accomplice, Keita, were found guilty by a jury. Akinsoji was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 28 years, while Keita received a life sentence with a minimum of 22 years.
The judge emphasized that while Jah was involved in gang activities, no one should meet such a fate. The court proceedings revealed the tragic loss suffered by Jah’s family, who endured the trials with dignity.
The fatal attack occurred when Jah left his residence to purchase a lighter at BJ Wines. He encountered two assailants in black attire and balaclavas near a parked stolen Mercedes. After a struggle, Jah was fatally stabbed in the heart by one of the attackers, who swiftly fled the scene.
The incident, captured on CCTV, highlighted the premeditated nature of the attack amid ongoing gang conflicts. Jah, a resident of the area, had a criminal record, including convictions for drug-related offenses and violence.
Akinsoji’s defense counsel argued that he grew up amidst gang rivalries and lacked proper guidance. Keita, also known as ‘SK,’ maintained a clean record until his involvement in the murder case. The court also heard about a violent encounter involving Akinsoji and his associates, who were armed with dangerous weapons during a confrontation with law enforcement.
Ultimately, Akinsoji and his accomplices were convicted for their roles in the crime, underscoring the severe consequences of gang violence in the community.
