A man who suffered critical injuries after he was beaten up in Willesden in June died eight days after he was attacked, it has been revealed today.

Mustafa Farah, 24, lost his fight for life after he was found collapsed in Bertie Road near the junction with Willesden High Road on Saturday, June 4 this year.

His death was made public today as 21-year-old Elmi Awil appeared in court via videolink charged with murder and possessing an offensive weapon.

The Old Bailey heard claims the two men were rivals and Awil battered Mr Farah with an iron bar during a street fight.

Awil was originally accused of grievous bodily harm but the charge was changed following Mr Farah’s death.

Prosecutor Peter Finnegan QC said: “The defendant was recently charged with murder. The case arises out of an incident that took place on June 4 in Willesden.

“Two groups of young men came together and there was an incident involving the use of an iron bar.

“The victim collapsed at the scene, was taken to hospital and died a few days later.”

No pleas were entered during the short hearing but the Recorder of Croydon, judge Warwick McKinnon, set the trial for January 23 next year.

Awil, of no fixed address, was remanded in custody and will return to court for a further case management hearing on November 4.

Related link: Fight in Willesden leaves man in a critical condition