The family of a 21-year-old man fatally shot and stabbed while returning home from a football match a decade ago has once again sought assistance in identifying those accountable for his death.
Ola Raji fell victim to a brutal attack by two assailants who stabbed and shot him while he was riding his bicycle on the East Surrey Grove estate, close to Commercial Way in Peckham, south London, on the evening of April 21, 2015.
Earlier that night, he had been at a friend’s residence to watch a Champions League game featuring Bayern Munich and Porto.
Crimestoppers, an independent charitable organization, is offering a reward of £20,000 for any information that leads to the identification and prosecution of the individuals responsible for this tragic murder.
Zainab Raji and Ruki Ware, Ola’s sisters, expressed that even the smallest detail from witnesses or anyone aware of the incident “could potentially bring the perpetrators to justice and enhance safety for the entire community.”
They further remarked that the anniversary of their brother’s passing serves as “a painful reminder of ten years marked by grief – our family will never reclaim that time.”
They lamented, “Whenever we gather, there’s always a feeling of something missing. There are children who will never know their uncle, who would still be so young today.
“The joy we share feels slightly muted. There’s a smile missing from our family pictures.
“However, this is not solely about our loss. It’s about ensuring the streets of Peckham and the broader south London region are safe. It’s clear that the individuals who committed this crime could strike again.”
The Metropolitan Police are eager to hear from witnesses who were in the vicinity on April 21, 2015, particularly a woman driving a black Vauxhall Corsa around 21:45 BST to 23:00, and two males who returned to Pear Court at 23:10.
Detective Chief Inspector Alex Gammampila, who is spearheading the investigation, stated: “Ola was an innocent victim, caught in a tragic situation at the most unfortunate time. His murder has left a profound impact on his friends, family, and the local community.
“Now, ten years later, we continue to urge anyone with information to step forward.
“Were you in Peckham that night? Were you also watching the football game, or were you nearby Commercial Way?
“Did you witness or hear anything related to the shooting or notice something out of the ordinary?
“No detail is trivial; it could be the crucial element that leads us to Ola’s assailants.”
Anyone with information, including photographs or videos, can submit their contributions through the dedicated appeal page.
