Man Arrested in UK After Being Extradited From Turkey in Connection With 2020 Double Murder
Authorities have taken a 36-year-old suspect into custody six years after two men were fatally shot at a large gathering in Manchester.
A 36-year-old man has been arrested in the United Kingdom after being extradited from Turkey, in connection with a double murder that occurred at a large gathering in Manchester more than six years ago. Cheriff Tall, 21, and Abayomi 'Junior' Ajose, 36, were killed in a shooting incident that took place in the early hours of June 21, 2020, in Moss Side.
Greater Manchester Police announced the arrest on Sunday, stating that the suspect was detained in Turkey and brought to England the previous day. He was met by officers at Stansted Airport and is currently in custody.
The incident occurred during a 'spontaneous' party attended by approximately 400 people in a car park near a block of flats. Police noted that the gathering took place hours after a Black Lives Matter protest.
Detective Chief Inspector Neil Higginson emphasized the ongoing commitment to justice for the victims and their families. "This arrest demonstrates our unwavering commitment to securing justice for Junior and Cheriff and their loved ones," Higginson stated. "Over the last six years, myself and my officers have been carrying out multiple warrants, analysing evidence, examining devices that have been seized during the investigation and pursuing every opportunity to identify those responsible."
He added that while the arrest is a significant development, the investigation is far from over. Police are continuing to appeal for information that could help establish the full circumstances of the night and identify any other potential suspects. Authorities believe that some of the hundreds of attendees may possess crucial eyewitness accounts.
"We know that some people who were there that night have not yet spoken with us, and we want to take this opportunity to urge you to come forward and speak with us," Higginson urged. "The smallest piece of information could prove to be vital. Anyone who witnessed what happened, or who knows anything about those responsible, please do the right thing and come forward."
A reward of £50,000 remains available for any information that leads to the discovery and conviction of those responsible for the killings. All information received will be thoroughly investigated and treated with respect, police confirmed.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Greater Manchester Police on 0161 856 3691, quoting incident number 221 of 21/06/20. Anonymous reports can also be made to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.