In a tragic incident that shook the community, 16-year-old Renell Charles lost his life on a bustling east London Street. The perpetrator, 17-year-old Myglor Yambuya, has been sentenced to life imprisonment after a swift investigation by dedicated detectives.
On Friday, May 5, at approximately 16.00, Renell was waiting at a bus stop on Markhouse Road E17, surrounded by friends. Suddenly, Yambuya, who had alighted from a taxi, confronted him. A brief verbal altercation ensued, and Renell attempted to flee. But Yambuya pursued him relentlessly, catching up and delivering two fatal stabs. The second blow struck Renell as he lay defenceless on the ground.
Detectives wasted no time. Within three days, Yambuya was charged with murder. His deliberate actions to evade capture—changing clothes and swapping SIM cards—did not deter the relentless pursuit of justice. When detectives arrived at his Newham residence on Saturday, May 6, Yambuya had already fled to Clapton. However, his attempt to mislead authorities failed. On Monday, May 8, he walked into Forest Gate police station, feigning confusion about their previous visit. He was promptly arrested and charged.
Yambuya faced trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court, where the evidence against him was compelling. On February 2, he was convicted of Renell’s murder. Today, he received a life sentence with a minimum term of 20 years. His claim of self-defence fell flat, as investigators pieced together a different narrative—one of aggression and violence.
