Teen Killer Caught After Brutal Thornton Heath Stabbing
Deadly Attack Outside Car
A 19-year-old gang thug from Mitcham, Ali Abdul Basit, has been found guilty of manslaughter and robbery over the savage killing of 27-year-old Michael Patrick Afonso Peixoto last December.
The chilling scene unfolded on 19 December 2023, as Peixoto stepped out of his car on Mayfield Crescent, Thornton Heath. Basit and his crew, waiting in a white BMW, launched a brutal knife attack. Peixoto was stabbed multiple times, including a fatal wound to the chest. His female friend was threatened at knifepoint, and their car was stolen in the terrifying ordeal.
Gang Members Face Lengthy Jail Terms
- Zak Baako, 30 – Convicted of murder, sentenced to at least 28 years behind bars.
- John Budal, 20 – Found guilty of manslaughter and robbery.
- Omari Peat, 23 – Convicted of robbery.
Fugitive Basit Nabbed Thanks to DNA and Phone Data
Basit fled the UK right after the attack, fleeing through Europe and the Middle East before reaching Pakistan. He snuck back into Britain in May 2025 but was quickly arrested.
Key evidence linking him to the crime included DNA from cigarette butts at the scene and phone records placing him at the attack.
Basit faces sentencing at the Old Bailey on 22 May. Justice is closing in fast.
