Saturday 12 June 2010

East London Teen Gang Murder Appeal


The mother of a murdered teenager has joined detectives in renewing appeals for information and witnesses that will nail the culprits of a gang-attack on her son who was stabbed to death earlier this year.

Isschan Nicholls, 18, from Poplar, East London died after the attack in nearby Parnell Road, Bow on January 13 by a gang of up to fifteen youths armed with knives and baseball bats.

Police who were called to the scene at about 9.10 pm discovered Isschan (pictured) and another 17-year-old boy suffering from stab wounds and both were rushed to the Royal London Hospital.

Isschan died early on 15 January.

A post mortem gave the cause of death as stab wounds to the abdomen and thigh and the second victim was treated and discharged.

"Isschan was loved by so many people,” said his mother Jennifer Williams. “He was a real family person who was passionate about his music, which was his main hobby whilst attending college.

"Our son has been put to rest, but the fact remains there are people harbouring others who have carried out this evil, vicious attack.

"This is what we, Isschan's family, are finding hard to comprehend. There are no excuses, reasoning or justification for this kind of violence and those involved must come forward to take responsibility for their actions and for the lives they have ruined.

"We have been robbed of someone precious to us and we will be grieving his loss for the remainder of our days. The emotional and mental pain that we go through daily is unexplainable, it is a surreal experience for us.

"We are asking if anybody knows anything regarding this incident, no matter how small the information- we are pleading with you to come forward and call police. Every piece of information is important right now, no matter how insignificant you may think it is."

"Exactly what sparked the fight which led to Isschan's death remains unclear at this time and we are keeping an open mind regards motive,” said Detective Inspector Dave Manning of the Homicide and Serious Crime Command.

"We know that shortly before the fight, Isschan and four friends had been traveling in a blue Rover which parked in Parnell Road.

"The vehicle was parked close to a Ford Fiesta which entered the road moments earlier containing four males.

"I appeal to anyone who was in the area at the time of the incident who may have seen what happened to contact police if you have not done so already.

Even if you feel you have no information to give, we would like to hear from you.

"There are people out there with vital details about what happened. I urge those people to tell us what they know.

“We understand some might have concerns about speaking to us, but it is important they do, so we can offer reassurance and support.

"Many may not see this as any of their business, but it is. You are all part of the community and have a vested interest in ensuring those who commit serious violence are held to account."

Anyone with information is asked to call the incident room on 020 8721 4054; if you wish to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

To date 12 people have been arrested in connection with the investigation. All were bailed to return to an east London police station pending further enquiries.

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