A rapper involved in drill music, known for his boastful lyrics including “no face, no case,” is now facing imprisonment for the fatal stabbing of a rival gang member. Lekan Akinsoji and his accomplice Sundjata Keita, both aged 27, concealed their identities by wearing black clothing and balaclavas when they fatally attacked Ahmed Deen-Jah, 21, in 2017.
Following a trial at the Old Bailey, both men have been convicted of the murder. Prior to the tragic incident, Akinsoji had featured in a rap video called Armed and Ready where he rapped about evading capture, stating, “No face, no case, no evvy (evidence).” Subsequently, Akinsoji was sentenced to 20 years in prison for conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of a firearm after a separate incident in 2018.
The court heard that the victim, Mr. Deen-Jah, was targeted after purchasing a lighter at a store near Custom House station. Two individuals wearing black attire and balaclavas emerged from a stolen black Mercedes and pursued Mr. Deen-Jah into a nearby shop where a fatal confrontation ensued, resulting in the victim being stabbed in the heart.
Prosecutors alleged that Akinsoji was the assailant in the attack, with Keita identified as the other individual involved. The incident was captured on CCTV footage, and despite medical intervention, Mr. Deen-Jah, also known as Grinna, tragically lost his life at the scene.
The court proceedings revealed that the murder was a premeditated act amid ongoing gang conflicts in East London. Akinsoji was associated with the Woodgrange gang, while the victim was part of the Custom House gang. Akinsoji denied direct involvement in the violence but was found guilty of murder alongside Keita.
The jury delivered a guilty verdict for both defendants, and they have been remanded in custody pending sentencing on October 24.
