Officers are urging the public’s assistance to locate 25-year-old Renaldo Roberts, who is wanted for questioning as part of an ongoing murder investigation in Hackney. The appeal follows the fatal stabbing of 20-year-old Jason Romeo outside an address on Bodney Street, E5 at approximately 17:59 on Tuesday, 18 February.
Authorities have charged three men in connection with the murder. Raynolph Asante (22) of Pembury Road, Hackney, Travis Mitchell (21) of Bodney Road, Hackney, and Rhamyah Bailey-Edwards (21) of Williams Avenue, Walthamstow appeared at Thames Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 24 February. Additionally, an 18-year-old suspect was arrested on Sunday, 23 February on suspicion of murder and remains in custody.
Detectives released an image of Renaldo Roberts, whose connections span both Hackney and Dagenham, and are keen to speak with him. Detective Superintendent Kelly Allen of Specialist Crime North stated, “This investigation has moved quickly with officers arresting four men within five days. We are now in the position to release Renaldo Roberts’ details, who we would like to speak with to assist with our enquiries. If you have any information on his whereabouts, please do not approach him and call 999 referencing CAD 5635/18FEB.”
In response to Jason Romeo’s death, police have heightened their presence in the area. A Section 60 order was implemented over the weekend, permitting officers to stop and search individuals without the need for reasonable suspicion. Detective Superintendent Vicky Tunstall of the Central East Command Unit commented, “We understand that the increased police presence in Hackney this week will be concerning for residents. Our officers will remain in the area carrying out increased patrols. Reducing knife crime is a key focus and we will continue to work closely with partners for a safe borough.”
Residents are encouraged to share any information regarding Renaldo Roberts’ whereabouts or any other relevant details that could assist the investigation. If you have any information, please call 999 immediately and reference CAD 5635/18FEB.
