A violent gang fight in Leicester has led to the imprisonment of four Nigerian students, bringing an end to a two-year investigation by UK police.
The students, who were all attending De Montfort University at the time of the incident, were sentenced following a six-week trial.
The altercation, which involved knives and a baseball bat, left an 18-year-old victim with stab wounds.
The fight occurred in the early hours of Thursday, November 4, 2021, on New Park Street in Leicester city center.
Police reports revealed that the altercation began with a verbal disagreement between two groups before escalating into violence.
Footage from the scene showed the defendants arming themselves with weapons.
Destiny Ojo, 21, wielded a baseball bat, while Habib Lawal, 21, and Ridwanulahi Raheem, 21, were seen carrying knives.
Joshua Davies-Ero, 21, was spotted with a crutch, which he used during the fight.
Detective Constable Sean Downey described the incident as a stark reminder of the dangers of violent disorder.
“It is extremely fortunate that further injury was not caused to others involved or innocent members of the public,” Downey said.
“This could have been a very different investigation.”
During the fight, an 18-year-old from the opposing group was thrown to the ground and stabbed four times.
He was rushed to the hospital by emergency services and later discharged.
The police launched a detailed investigation that spanned several months, involving CCTV analysis, mobile phone records, and public appeals.
The painstaking work eventually led to the identification of the suspects.
On Thursday, November 14, 2024, a UK court sentenced the four students in connection with the incident:
- Destiny Ojo, 21, from Plumstead, London, received seven years for violent disorder, attempted grievous bodily harm (GBH), and GBH with intent.
- Habib Lawal, 21, from Bexley, London, was sentenced to five years for similar offenses.
- Ridwanulahi Raheem, 21, from Lambeth, London, was handed three years for violent disorder and possession of a bladed article.
- Joshua Davies-Ero, 21, from Bexley, London, was sentenced to two years for violent disorder.
A fifth defendant, Justin Asamoah, 22, previously pleaded guilty to possessing a bladed article. He is awaiting sentencing.
Footage revealed shocking scenes of violence in the city center.
Ojo was seen swinging a baseball bat, while Lawal and Raheem brandished large knives.
Other members of the public were in the area during the fight, raising concerns about the safety of bystanders.
The police and East Midlands Ambulance Service quickly arrived at the scene to contain the situation.
Detective Constable Downey thanked the public for their assistance during the investigation.
“Thank you to everyone who has provided information,” he said.
“As a force, our priority is to keep the public safe. We will not tolerate violent disorder in our communities.”
