East London Night Out Ends in Murder Conviction
A man has been convicted of murder after stabbing a stranger during a night out in East London. The Met Police launched a thorough probe that led to the arrest and conviction.
Hamza Kamali Found Guilty at Old Bailey
Hamza Kamali, 29, from Stratford, was found guilty on Tuesday 22 July at the Old Bailey for the murder of 38-year-old Saley Beya. The violent knife attack happened outside a nightclub on Romford Road, E7, in the early hours of 10 August 2024.
Kamali was also convicted of possession of an offensive weapon and is set to be sentenced on Thursday 24 July.
Tragic Night Out Turns Deadly
- Saley Beya was enjoying a night out with friends, starting at a party in Stratford before heading to the Romford Road nightclub around 2:30am.
- Just after 3:30am, a dispute erupted outside between one of Saley’s friends and a group linked to Kamali.
- Kamali arrived armed with a knife and confronted Saley, stabbing him in the leg during a brief exchange.
- Saley tried to run but was chased and kicked multiple times by Kamali before being left collapsed from severe blood loss.
- Despite emergency treatment and being rushed to hospital in cardiac arrest, Saley died from his injuries on 29 August, nearly three weeks later.
Forensics and CCTV Crack the Case
Police arrested Kamali on 16 August. Bloodstained trainers were found at his home. CCTV showed Kamali tending to an injured hand, likely wounded by his own knife during the attack.
Crucially, Kamali’s blood was found at the crime scene, directly linking him to the murder. Further footage showed him changing clothes and disposing of a plastic bag after the incident, though its contents remain missing.
Detective Superintendent Speaks Out
“Saley’s family and loved ones have endured incredible pain and suffering over this past year and I am thinking of them today as they process this outcome.Kamali’s actions that night were violent and deliberate. He went out armed with a knife—clearly intent on causing harm.” – Detective Superintendent Kelly Allen
Two More Admit Roles in Violent Affray
In connection with the same incident, two men—Abdi Ulusow, 28, from E12, and Edson Bernardo, 26, from Westcliff-on-Sea—pleaded guilty to affray and possession of offensive weapons, including a machete and a pole. They face sentencing on 24 July alongside Kamali.
