A young Nigerian man has lost his life in a violent attack in the United Kingdom, casting a shadow over the new year for his community. The Metropolitan Police have identified the victim as 23-year-old John Temitope Onetufo, from Deptford, who was stabbed to death on New Year's Eve.
Details of the Tragic Incident
Police authorities in London were alerted to the attack at approximately 12:35 GMT on December 31. The incident occurred on Grove Street in the Deptford area of south-east London. Emergency services rushed to the scene where they found John suffering from a critical stab wound to his chest.
Despite the immediate and best efforts of paramedics who provided treatment, the young man's injuries proved fatal. He was pronounced dead at the scene, a devastating outcome for his family and friends both in the UK and back home in Nigeria.
Arrests and Charges in the Murder Case
In a significant update on Monday, January 5, 2026, the Metropolitan Police disclosed that a 17-year-old boy has been charged with murder. Due to his age, the identity of the teenage suspect cannot be publicly revealed. He is scheduled to appear before the Bromley Magistrates' Youth Court.
The investigation has also led to further arrests. Officers took a 23-year-old man into custody on suspicion of murder. Additionally, an 18-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice. Both individuals have been released on bail pending further enquiries as the probe continues.
Ongoing Investigation and Appeal for Justice
Leading the investigation, Detective Chief Inspector Samantha Townsend provided a statement. She confirmed that her team has been working relentlessly, which resulted in the two arrests. She described this as a significant development but emphasized that the investigation is far from over.
"My team has worked relentlessly over recent days to pursue every line of enquiry," DCI Townsend said. "Our investigation remains ongoing as we work to establish the full circumstances surrounding what happened."
She extended her deepest sympathies to John's grieving family and friends, assuring them of the force's commitment. "We remain committed to finding answers and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice," she concluded. The case highlights ongoing concerns about knife crime and violence affecting young people, including members of the Nigerian diaspora community abroad.
