The Metropolitan Police in the United Kingdom have arrested two people in connection with the stabbing death of 23-year-old Nigerian, John Temitope Onetufo, in Lewisham, London.
According to a statement released by the Met Police, the incident occurred on New Year’s Eve. Emergency responders were alerted at around 12:35 p.m., and Onetufo was discovered with stab wounds to the chest. Despite immediate medical attention, including efforts by the London Ambulance Service and Air Ambulance, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
“Police were called at approximately 12:35 p.m. on Wednesday, 31 December, following reports of a stabbing on Grove Street, Lewisham,” the statement read. “Emergency teams arrived, but despite their efforts, the 23-year-old man was pronounced dead. He has been identified as John Temitope Onetufo from Deptford.”
Two suspects, aged 17 and 23, were arrested on January 2 in connection with the incident.
Detective Chief Inspector Samantha Townsend, leading the investigation, appealed to the public for any information that could help clarify the circumstances surrounding Onetufo’s death. She said, “We have pursued every possible lead in the past days. While the arrests are an important development, our investigation continues. We extend our sincere condolences to John’s family and friends and are determined to hold those responsible accountable.”
The case underscores concerns about knife violence in the UK, which has affected numerous individuals, including members of the Nigerian community. In August 2025, 60-year-old Nigerian woman Nkiru Chima was also found stabbed to death in her Romford apartment, highlighting the ongoing risks associated with knife crime in the country.
Johnson Idowu has over four years of experience reporting on education, politics, and metropolitan news in Nigeria.













