Brutal Machete Gang Attack Kills Teen in Moston Street Brawl
Deadly Ambush on Kenyon Lane
Just before 7pm on November 5, 2020, a mob of 13 males prowling Moston Lane in Oldham turned violent when they spotted a rival group, including 17-year-old John Soyoye. Suddenly, the gang pulled out machetes, bats, and other weapons. They charged at John and his mates, swinging wildly in a brutal sword-and-bat frenzy.
John got trapped and brutally assaulted after bleeding and falling behind as the larger group chased them down Birchenall Street. Surrounded by nine attackers, John was repeatedly stabbed, slashed, struck, and kicked in a savage mob attack — all caught on camera by one of the assailants.
Passers-by rushed to help, but John died at the scene from his horrific injuries.
Flight, Lies and Arrests
- The gang scattered, some jumping into a taxi to Royal Oldham Hospital.
- Brent Tchipenda, one of John’s attackers, arrived at A&E claiming he was a victim of an Oldham assault — alone and without his bloodied clothes and rucksack.
- Police quickly grew suspicious and arrested Tchipenda for murder.
- Later arrests included Francesco Raji, Christopher Semedo, Nelson Correia, Octavio Antonio, a 16-year-old, and Ismael Correia.
- Seized phones revealed chilling drill lyrics referencing John’s nickname ‘MD’ and a video boasting about the killing.
- Octavio Antonio was nabbed trying to flee on a train at St Pancras.
Justice Served After Gruelling Trial
Following an 11-week trial between October and December 2021, the court handed down heavy sentences:
- Christopher Semedo – 24 years
- Nelson Correia – 23½ years
- Francesco Raji & Brent Tchipenda – 21 years each
- Octavio Antonio – 20 years
- Ismael Correia – 20½ years
- 16-year-old accomplice – 16 years
- Mohammed Al-Jaf was cleared of murder but found guilty of manslaughter; sentencing pending.
Five suspects remain at large, believed to have fled the UK.
GHQ Statement: A Sword of Justice
“This was a horrific and senseless assault that cost a young boy his life,” said Detective Chief Inspector Gareth Davies. “No parent should hear of such brutality. These sentences send a clear warning — carrying knives ruins lives. GMP will continue hunting those responsible to bring justice.”
