Greater Manchester Police met a 36-year-old suspect at Stansted Airport on Saturday after he was detained in Turkey and transported back to England in connection with the fatal shooting of Junior Ajose and Cheriff Tall during a lockdown party in Manchester more than six years ago. He remains in custody.
Gunfire at a 2020 Moss Side Lockdown Party
Greater Manchester Police estimate that between 300 and 400 people were present in the car park on the night of the incident, many of whom were socialising and enjoying themselves. The two men, who did not know each other, both suffered fatal gunshot wounds to the head in a car park off Caythorne Street shortly before 01:00 BST and subsequently died in hospital.
Extradition From Turkey and Airport Arrest
The 36-year-old suspect was detained abroad before being transported back to England on Saturday.
Detective Chief Inspector Neil Higginson from the force’s major incident team stated that Saturday’s apprehension marks an advance in their efforts.
“This arrest demonstrates our unwavering commitment to securing justice for Junior and Cheriff and their loved ones.”
Det Ch Insp Neil Higginson, Greater Manchester Police
“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.”
Det Ch Insp Neil Higginson, Greater Manchester Police
Detectives Maintain a £50,000 Reward for Witnesses
Authorities noted that some people who were present during the incident have not yet spoken with investigators, urging those individuals to come forward. Detectives stress that their work is far from over. Police continue to urge witnesses to come forward to establish the full circumstances of that night and to identify any outstanding suspects.
“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. The £50,000 reward remains in place, and all information we receive will be investigated thoroughly and treated with the respect that it deserves.”
Det Ch Insp Neil Higginson, Greater Manchester Police
Will the hundreds of people present in the car park who have not yet spoken with investigators come forward with information about those responsible?