A 23-year-old man who fled to Albania following the fatal stabbing of a teenager in Finsbury Park has been convicted of manslaughter.
Kevin Peraj, formerly of Kentish Town, was found guilty at Isleworth Crown Court under the legal doctrine of joint enterprise for his role in the killing of Ahmed Habib, 19. The verdict follows a six-week trial, and Peraj is due to be sentenced on August 1.
The fatal attack took place in the early hours of July 11, 2024, when police were called to Stroud Green Road and found Habib with multiple stab wounds inside a stationary car. He had attempted to flee the scene but collapsed near Tollington Avenue, dying just before 3am. A second man, seated in the passenger side of the vehicle, was also stabbed but survived.
Escape and Arrest
Peraj was captured on CCTV attacking the car’s occupants on Seven Sisters Road, before Habib attempted to drive away. Within hours of the incident, Peraj made his way to Heathrow Airport, but after missing a flight, he fled the country via the Eurotunnel.
He remained at large until a warrant was issued at his family home, prompting him to contact police. He was arrested upon his return to the UK on July 16 and charged the following day.
Although initially charged with murder, he was ultimately convicted of manslaughter.
Police Appeal for Second Suspect
The Metropolitan Police believe another man was involved in the attack and are appealing to the public to help identify him. Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting reference 873/11July2024, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Detective Inspector Brett Hagen, who led the investigation, said:
“I would like to pay my respects to Ahmed’s family. I am, once again, very sorry for your loss. I hope this result, and that Peraj will now face the consequences of his actions, brings some small comfort.
Our investigation into the events of that day continues, and we are keen to identify the second man involved.”
Forensic teams were seen examining the scene of the attack, and extensive CCTV and witness evidence contributed to the conviction.
