Andrew Haslam QC and Andrew Smith secure convictions in multi-handed murder trial

March 17, 2022

Andrew Haslam QC (leader) and Andrew Smith from Exchange Chambers have successfully prosecuted seven gang members for fatally stabbing a 16-year-old boy in Moston, Greater Manchester.

The gang was sentenced to a total of 146 years in prison.

On 5 November 2020, Alexander “John” Soyoye, 16, was attacked by a group of 13 males with bats and other weapons before he was fatally stabbed by the gang who filmed the incident.

The following seven men and boys were convicted of murder and violent disorder:

• Francesco Raji, 19, and Christopher Semedo, 23, both of Elm Road, Oldham were jailed for 21 years and 24 years respectively
• Brent Tchipenda, 19, of Wistaria Road, Gorton was jailed for 21 years
• Antonio Octavio, 19, of Deepdale Court, Blackley was jailed for 20 years
• Ismiel Correia, 20, of no fixed abode was jailed for 20-and-a-half years
• Nelson Correia, 22, of Petworth Road, Oldham was jailed for 23-and-a-half years
• A 16-year-old boy who cannot be named due to his age was jailed for 16 years

Mohammed Al-Jaf, 21, of Bradney Close, Manchester was found not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter and violent disorder.  He will be sentenced at a later date.

Five other suspects are still wanted for questioning and are believed to have left the UK shortly after the murder.