Eight years after Ahmed Deen-Jah was brutally stabbed to death, two killers have finally been locked up. Lekan Akinsoji and Sundjata Keita, both just 27, were found guilty today at the Old Bailey following a tense four-week trial. The crime rocked East 1 back in April 2017 but went cold—until fresh police work cracked the case wide open.
Cold Case Cracked: How Cops Nabbed the Murderers
Ahmed, 24, was randomly attacked and fatally stabbed in a Newham convenience store. Suspects were arrested straight away but walked free due to lack of evidence. It wasn’t until a 2023 review reignited the investigation that the breakthrough came.
- Phone data placed Keita’s device in the getaway car.
- The stolen car was spotted driving towards Epping Forest, where it was later torched.
- Forensic evidence tied Keita to the knife sheath and DNA found on Ahmed’s body.
Cold-Blooded Crime: Gang Feud Behind the Murder
The courtroom drama revealed the shocking truth. The attack was a ruthless “tit for tat” gang hit. CCTV footage captured Akinsoji and Keita stalking Ahmed—who they didn’t even know—before stabbing him in cold blood. The killers were cruising in a stolen car, hunting down rival gang members.
Justice Served: Family and Cops Respond
“Eight years on from Ahmed’s vicious murder, today his family finally have the justice they deserve,” said Detective Superintendent Kelly Allen. “Akinsoji and Keita thought they had got away with it, but thanks to persistent police work, they will now face the consequences.”
Ahmed’s father said he was “overwhelmed with relief” and thanked officers for their dedication. Akinsoji and Keita face sentencing at the Old Bailey on 24 October.
This case highlights the Met Police’s unwavering commitment to solving cold cases and bringing violent offenders to justice. Families of victims can rest assured that killers will not escape the long arm of the law.
