Met Detective Urges Newham Locals to Help After Teen Murder
The senior detective leading the Met’s probe into the stabbing murder of 14-year-old Fares Maatou has thanked the Newham community for their support — and urged anyone with information to come forward now.
Teen Fatally Stabbed on Barking Road
Police were called to Barking Road, E16, just before 5pm on Friday, 23 April, where they found Fares suffering from stab wounds. Despite emergency efforts, the schoolboy was pronounced dead shortly after 4.30pm. Officers believe he was attacked with a large blade. A post-mortem will be arranged in due course.
Three Teens Arrested as Investigation Intensifies
DCI Perry Benton, leading the Specialist Crime investigation, said:
“Fares’s family are absolutely devastated. I have assured them of my total commitment to bringing those responsible to justice. Specialist officers will support them through what will be a terrible ordeal in the months and years ahead.”
He added:
“We’ve had fantastic support from locals and received valuable information already. But we need more witnesses to come forward. Every detail helps us piece together what happened that Friday afternoon.”
So far, three boys have been arrested and remain in custody: a 14-year-old and a 15-year-old on suspicion of murder, and another 15-year-old in connection with the case. Police have maintained a crime scene in the area and increased patrols.
Call Now If You Know Something
Police are urging anyone with information to call the incident room on 020 8345 1570 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously.
Hard calls save lives. If you know someone involved in knife crime, do the right thing for your community — and your loved ones — by passing on what you know, 100% anonymously through Crimestoppers.
