Four Nigerian students have been sentenced to prison in the United Kingdom following a violent confrontation involving knives and a baseball bat in Leicester.
The incident occurred in the early hours of November 4, 2021, on New Park Street, leaving an 18-year-old man with multiple stab wounds that required hospital treatment.
The altercation, which escalated into a large street fight, prompted an extensive investigation by authorities. Using CCTV footage, phone tracking, and public appeals, police were able to identify the suspects and charge them.
Following a six-week trial that concluded in October, the four men, all aged 21, were sentenced on November 14. Destiny Ojo from Plumstead, London, received a seven-year prison term for violent disorder, grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent, and attempted GBH.
Habib Lawal, from Bexley, London, was handed a five-year sentence for similar offenses. Ridwanulahi Raheem, from Lambeth, London, was sentenced to three years for violent disorder and possession of a bladed article, while Joshua Davies-Ero, also from Bexley, was sentenced to two years for violent disorder.
A fifth individual, 22-year-old Justin Asamoah from Merton, had earlier pleaded guilty to possession of a bladed article and is scheduled to be sentenced on November 22.
Detective Constable Sean Downey condemned the violence, emphasizing its potential for even greater harm. “This incident highlights the serious danger of violent disorder. It is extremely fortunate that further injuries were not caused to those involved or innocent members of the public who witnessed the incident. This could have been a much more tragic investigation,” he said.
Downey thanked everyone who assisted with the investigation and reaffirmed the police’s commitment to public safety. “As a force, our priority is to keep the public safe. We will not tolerate violent disorder in our communities and will take decisive action against those responsible,” he added.