Gay Man Murdered in Suspected Homophobic Attack in Tower Hamlets
A man has been fatally injured in a suspected homophobic attack in Tower Hamlets. Police have named him as Ranjith Kakanamalage, also known as ‘Roy’, aged 50. Ranjith was a well-known gay resident of the area for many years.
Tragic Discovery in Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
Emergency services were called at around 6:30am on Monday, 16 August, after reports of a man found unresponsive in Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park on Southern Grove, E3. Officers and paramedics arrived to find Ranjith suffering a head injury. Sadly, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
A post-mortem on Thursday, 19 August revealed blunt force trauma to the head as the cause of death.
Investigation Underway as Police Appeal for Help
Police are treating the murder as a potential homophobic hate crime but are keeping an open mind. A 36-year-old man arrested in connection has been released on bail.
Detective Chief Superintendent Marcus Barnett said:
“This is a horrific murder and my thoughts are with Ranjith’s family and loved ones. There is no place in London for hate crime. We are committed to tackling it and bringing those responsible to justice.”
Officers have increased patrols and are working with LGBT+ groups like Galop, Elop, and Positive East to support the community and raise safety awareness. Locals are urged to stay vigilant, avoid dimly lit areas, and report anything suspicious immediately.
Community Urged to Speak Up
Detective Superintendent Pete Wallis added:
“My officers are working round the clock. We urge anyone who witnessed suspicious behaviour in or around the park to come forward. Your information could be crucial.”
Derek Lee from the LGBT+ Advisory Group stressed the importance of privacy and support:
“We are advising the police and council to ensure LGBT+ issues are addressed in this investigation. If you have information, please contact police, Crimestoppers, or the charity Galop.”
How to Help
- Contact the Incident Room on 0208 345 3865
- Call 101 or tweet @MetCC quoting reference 1277/16
- Use the Crimestoppers website
- Remain anonymous by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
The crime scene remains cordoned off at Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park as the investigation continues. Authorities stress the importance of community cooperation to bring justice for Ranjith Roy.
