Three Guilty of Brutal Stabbing Murder at Old Bailey
After an eight-week trial at the Old Bailey, Ta-jaun Subaran, 19, and two 17-year-olds from Hendon have been found guilty of murder. The trio viciously killed Anthony Adekola in a stabbing attack that shocked the community.
Night of Horror on Martlesham Walk
On the evening of 5 September 2020, at around 9.14pm, Anthony was fatally stabbed as he walked home from work along Martlesham Walk. CCTV footage captured two minicabs pulling up in convoy near the scene, both hired from private firms.
A group of men jumped out and waited seconds before Anthony approached and spoke briefly with them. Suddenly, he ran off but tripped over a concrete bollard in an alleyway where the gang caught him. They launched a brutal, repeated stabbing assault, leaving him with nine injuries, the deadliest a fatal wound to his neck.
Swift Getaway and Police Hunt
The attackers fled quickly, jumping back into the taxis and speeding towards Colindale Avenue. Anthony was found lifeless by his brother and friends around 11pm, despite attempts by paramedics to save him. A post-mortem confirmed death by haemorrhage from the neck stab wound.
Forensic detectives from Specialist Crime North traced the murder weapons and the vehicles used. A fingerprint inside one taxi and DNA on a discarded facemask linked two of the youths directly to the crime scene. Phone records also showed Subaran attempted to book taxis just before the killing.
Justice Served and Families Speak Out
Police arrested the suspects days after the murder, charging all three with murder. They were remanded in custody and are due for sentencing on 5 November.
“This group drove to Colindale together to commit this violent crime,” said Detective Chief Superintendent Neil John. “Their actions took the life of a young man with his whole future ahead of him. The calculated nature of this attack only highlights its brutality.”
“Anthony was an innocent victim, attacked in a sustained and vicious assault with multiple weapons. The fatal injuries left him no chance of survival. Our streets are safer now these killers have been convicted.”
Anthony’s mother, speaking on behalf of the family, said: “It’s been nearly 12 agonising months since the senseless and unprovoked killing of my son. I’m relieved justice has been served.”
“This ordeal has been mentally exhausting. Anthony’s murder has left an unfillable void in our family. I hope the killers realise the damage they have caused.”
“Thanks to the Crown Prosecution Service, Metropolitan Police, and all who supported us through this nightmare.”
This tragic case sends a strong message about street violence and the brutal consequences of gang conflicts in London.
