The Metropolitan Police has renewed its appeal for information 31 years after the tragic murder of 18-year-old James Akinwande, who was stabbed to death in Brixton. A reward of £20,000 is being offered for information that leads to the successful conviction of those responsible.
On the early morning of January 16, 1994, James was attacked by a group of young men after leaving the Vox nightclub in Brighton Terrace, Brixton. Following a fight at the club, he became separated from his friends near Boots on Brixton Road around 4:45 am. He was then chased, beaten, and stabbed.
James managed to escape momentarily by slipping out of his jacket and ran toward a nearby police van on Brixton Road, where he collapsed. Officers administered first aid until paramedics arrived. Despite their efforts, James succumbed to his injuries—stab wounds to his chest and arm—after being rushed to King’s College Hospital.
Key Evidence and Appeal
James was wearing a distinctive red and dark blue FILA jacket with the FILA logo across the back, which was stolen during the attack. Police have released images of the jacket in hopes it might jog memories.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the police by calling 101 and quoting Operation Poldark or CAD 1203/16Jan25. Alternatively, the incident room can be reached at 0208 785 8267.
Family’s Heartfelt Tribute
James’ family has shared a moving statement, describing him as a “generous, endlessly funny, and positive young man” whose presence “brightened every room he entered.”
They said: “James’ murder tore a void in our family that can never be filled. His mother, devastated by the loss of her son, has never been the same and finds it too painful to even visit his grave. The impact of James’ absence is felt in every moment, and we continue to grieve the life he was so cruelly denied.”
Police Commitment to Justice
Detective Superintendent Katherine Goodwin, leading the investigation, said: “It has been 31 years since James’ tragic murder, and we are still actively searching for the group of young men involved in this horrific attack. We have not given up hope of securing justice for James’ family and providing them with the answers they so desperately need.
“If you were involved in the incident, know that we are still looking for you. A reward of up to £20,000 is available for anyone who provides information leading to the charge and conviction of the person or people responsible.”
The police are urging anyone who was at the Vox nightclub or who remembers seeing James’ distinctive jacket to come forward and help bring justice to James’ family after their decades-long wait.
