Knife Horror on Moston Lane: John Soyoye Brutally Murdered in Street Attack
Late Night Ambush Ends in Tragedy
Just before 7pm on Thursday 5 November 2020, a pack of 13 males were seen roaming Moston Lane, Moston. Tensions exploded when they reached Kenyon Lane and pulled out weapons – machetes, bats, you name it. They charged another group, including John Soyoye, swinging deadly blows.
Brent Tchipenda fought John but soon the smaller group tried to flee after John was badly injured. The larger gang gave chase down Kenyon Lane and onto Birchenall Street. John slowed, isolated by his wounds. The group surrounded him and unleashed a brutal assault – stabbing, slashing, kicking. Nine men battered him to the ground while filming the savage attack.
Helpless Bystanders and Failed Escape
Shocked onlookers rushed to John’s aid but he was dead at the scene. The gang fled fast. Some jumped in a taxi and headed to Royal Oldham Hospital, with Tchipenda seeking medical help alone, claiming he was just a victim of an assault. The others ditched his blood-stained clothes and rucksack elsewhere.
Police Crack the Case: Arrests and Evidence
- Tchipenda arrested on suspicion of murder after police doubted his story.
- Francesco Raji, Christopher Semedo, Nelson Correia, Octavio Antonio, and a 16-year-old were nabbed later that month. Police seized phones and clothes from the night of the murder.
- The teen’s phone held drill lyrics referencing ‘MD’ – John’s nickname – plus a video of attackers gloating about the kill.
- Antonio was caught trying to flee the country at St Pancras station.
- Ismael Correia was arrested on 23 December.
Justice Delivered: Long Prison Terms for Killers
After an 11-week trial in late 2021, the court slammed lengthy jail terms on seven hooded killers for murder and violent disorder:
- Francesco Raji – 21 years
- Christopher Semedo – 24 years
- Brent Tchipenda – 21 years
- Octavio Antonio – 20 years
- Ismael Correia – 20 and a half years
- Nelson Correia – 23 and a half years
- Unnamed 16-year-old – 16 years
Mohammed Al-Jaf escaped murder but was found guilty of manslaughter and violent disorder. Sentencing pending. Five suspects remain at large, believed to have fled the UK.
Detective Chief Inspector Gareth Davies said: “This was a horrific, violent and senseless assault that cost a young boy his life. No family should have to hear their child was brutally murdered in the street. These sentences bring some justice and closure. Knives ruin lives – for victims and carriers alike. This sends a clear message: carry a knife, and you face serious consequences. GMP will make sure justice is served.”
