Police tonight released CCTV stills of three people they wish to trace in connection with the murder of Mahad Ali.
It comes after the case of a 20-year-old man accused of Mahad’s murder was discontinued earlier this month. He had been set to stand trial at the Old Bailey in April.
Mahad, 18, lived in Islington and was part of Islington Boxing Club. He was at “West Wednesday”, a post-Eid party, on June 29 last year when he was stabbed to death.
It happened in Coronation Road, Park Royal. It’s widely thought Mahad – “the kind of person everyone liked” according to one friend – was in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Det Ch Insp Luke Marks, who is leading the investigation, said: “I want to trace everyone who was at the West Wednesday party on June 29. Although we have spoken to a number of people already, I believe there are a significant number that have not yet come forward. I wish to identify and speak with these individuals.
“We have today released images of people I would like to trace. They may have vital information regarding this investigation.
“We know there were pockets of violence that occurred in and around the venue that night, separate incidents to the one in which Mahad was stabbed. Were you involved? Were you injured? Did you record footage or take photos that night? I am particularly keen to speak with anyone who was involved in these, who knows anything about the altercations, or has video footage or photos of the disturbances.
“Mahad suffered significant injuries and there is a strong possibility that the person or people involved in the attack may have got blood stains on their clothing or had visible injuries themselves. I am appealing for anyone with information about a person who returned home from the party with bloodstained clothing or an injury to share that information with me.”
Mahad’s parents, Naima Farah and Ali Omar, said in a statement: “A senseless murder claimed the life of our 18-year old son. Mahad is missed terribly by family and friends. His sudden and violent death has left a huge void in our family structure. Our shock and sorrow will remain with us forever.
“Our son was an easygoing young man who showed respect to everyone with whom he came in contact. Mahad loved boxing and belonged to Islington Boxing Club for the last decade. Until his violent death, Mahad was attending Westminster Kingsway College.
“We appeal to anyone who saw the murder or knows anything about it to come forward and help the police in their effort to arrest the murderers.”
Two men, aged 41 and 21, were arrested last summer on suspicion of murder. A 26-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of violent disorder. All three men were released under investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 020 8358 0200. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers – which is offering a £10,000 reward for information that could lead to a conviction – anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org
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