A £20,000 reward is being offered for information that brings the murderer of a 21-year-old knifed to death at Notting Hill Carnival to justice.
Dad-to-be Takayo Nembhard died in hospital after being stabbed in an “unprovoked” attack around 8pm on Monday, August 29 last year, under the Westway flyover in Ladbroke Grove.
Mr Nembhard - a footballer turned drill artist, who used the moniker TKorStretch - had been at the carnival with his sister and friends when he was attacked.
A post-mortem revealed he died from a stab wound to the groin, which struck his femoral artery.
Police have arrested several people in connection with his murder - the most recent last week - but no one has yet been charged.
As the one-year anniversary approaches, independent charity Crimestoppers is now offering a £20,000 reward for anonymous information they receive that leads to a conviction.
Crimestoppers take information and passes it on to detectives, while guaranteeing those who get in touch stay totally anonymous.
Officers will also be at this year’s Notting Hill Carnival, which takes place over the bank holiday weekend, talking to visitors and making fresh appeals for information.
Detective Inspector Laura Semple said: “It has been a year since Takayo died and his family remain devastated at his loss. His son, who was born in November, is growing up having never known his dad.
“Takayo was a talented rapper and singer from Bristol who had visited the carnival with his friends and sister. He had done nothing to provoke the attack that day.
“We still really need the help of anyone who has information to bring those responsible to justice. I hope the offer of this substantial reward from the charity Crimestoppers with the appeal to contact them anonymously will encourage people to do the right thing.”
Alexa Loukas, London Regional Manager at Crimestoppers, added: “Takayo was part of a loving and caring family. At the time of his murder, he and his girlfriend were expecting their first child together.
“There were many witnesses to the killing who could have vital information, but for whatever reason, have not yet come forward. Our charity, which is independent of the police, gives you the opportunity to pass on information about crime whilst staying completely anonymous.
“I know how hard it is to speak up, but you could make a difference. Every piece of information, no matter how small, is a step closer towards finding justice for Takayo.”
Mr Nembhard’s family told how almost a year on from his murder, they remain “in disbelief and continued sadness that Takayo’s passing goes unpunished”.
“We will never get over him but justice being served will help us to move on,” they added.
Several people have been arrested in connection with Takayo’s murder.
Detectives say there were several hundred people in the immediate area surrounding the murder and “probably many witnesses”.
They are still keen to hear from anyone with information, including anyone who was filming or photographing in the area at the time and may have captured relevant video footage or images.
A dedicated page has been set up where witnesses can upload photos and videos of the incident. It is simple to use and can be accessed here. Information can also be provided by calling the incident room directly on 020 7175 2206 to speak to an officer, by calling 101 or by tweeting @MetCC quoting 7478/29AUG22.
