The UK Metropolitan Police have charged a 17-year-old boy with murder over the stabbing death of a Nigerian man, John Onetufo, in London.
The charge was confirmed in a statement released by the police on Tuesday, following the fatal incident that occurred in the Lewisham area on New Year’s Eve.
Onetufo, aged 23, was found with severe stab wounds to his chest after police received a distress call from Grove Street on December 31.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but despite efforts by paramedics, the young Nigerian was pronounced dead at the location.
Detective Chief Inspector Samantha Townsend, who is leading the investigation, said arrests had been made after days of intense work by officers.
“My team has worked relentlessly over recent days to pursue every line of enquiry, and I can confirm that two arrests have now been made in connection with this tragic incident,” Townsend said.
She described the development as important but stressed that investigations were still ongoing.
“This is a significant development, but our investigation remains ongoing as we work to establish the full circumstances surrounding what happened,” she added.
Townsend also expressed sympathy to the victim’s family and friends.
“I want to extend my deepest sympathies to John’s family and friends. We remain committed to finding answers and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice,” she said.
According to the police update, the 17-year-old suspect, whose identity was withheld due to his age, was formally charged with murder on Monday, January 5, 2026.
“A 17-year-old boy has been charged with murder following a fatal stabbing in Grove Street, Lewisham, on Wednesday, 31 December,” the statement said.
It added that the teenager is expected to appear before the Bromley Magistrates’ Youth Court.
The police also disclosed that two other suspects were arrested in connection with the case but have been released on bail.
A 23-year-old man was arrested on January 2 on suspicion of murder and later granted bail while investigations continue.
An 18-year-old woman was also arrested on January 4 on suspicion of perverting the course of justice and has equally been released on bail.
The Metropolitan Police said enquiries are ongoing as officers work to determine the full details surrounding the killing.
