Jordan Kukabu murder near Dagenham Heathway: Romford man jailed

Wazabakana Kukabu, known as Jordan, was murdered on May 5 last year near Dagenham Heathway station. 

At 11.45pm Jordan and a friend were parked near the station when four people moved towards their car brandishing machetes. 

One of them stabbed Jordan in the chest while he sat in the back seat. 

Jordan managed to sprint away and stopped a passing car for help, but he then collapsed on the road and was pronounced dead a short time later. 

Jordan Kukabu (Image: Met Police) On Tuesday (October 15) four people were jailed for life after being convicted of murder.

Toulwalase Odunewu, 18, of Angel Way in Romford, and Michael Tommy-Mbogba, 21, of Arkwrights in Harlow, Essex, will serve minimum sentences of 23 years and 29 years respectively.

Two teens – aged 16 and 17 – will serve a minimum of 16 years and 23 years respectively. 

Michael Tommy-Mbogba (Image: Met Police) Jordan’s dad said: “My son possessed beauty both inside and out. He had a pure heart and was so gentle he would not harm anyone, yet his life was taken so prematurely. 

“I can only visit Jordan’s grave and mourn the loss of his beautiful presence to this world.” 

His mum added: “Words will never explain the pain and devastation I have writing this. Jordan has a family who love him so much and you took my precious son away from us. 

“He always showed his whole family and everyone who knew him love and affection.” 

Toulwalase Odunewu (Image: Met Police) Detectives pieced together CCTV of the attacks and the defendants leaving the scene. 

They also identified witnesses who came forward to supply crucial evidence, including one witness who explained that he saw the attackers sitting on the top deck of a bus re-enacting the fatal attack. 

Officers found a blood-stained knife close to the scene, it was tested and matched to Tommy-Mbogba. 

Jordan’s dad said: “I want to take this opportunity to thank the judge, the prosecution team and the investigation team for all the hard work.” 

The four attackers were also found guilty of a separate incident of violent disorder which had taken place two days previously. 

Det Ch Insp Laura Semple, who led the investigation, said: “I want to extend our deepest condolences to Jordan’s family and those who knew him - our thoughts very much remain with them today. 

“I would also like to thank those witnesses who came forward and provided crucial evidence during the trial, as well as acknowledge the incredible efforts of those Met officers and other emergency service staff who tried so desperately to save Jordan’s life. 

“Knife crime has a devastating impact on our communities and rips families apart – that's why we’re committed to doing everything in our power to work with partners and charities, such as the Ben Kinsella Trust, to protect young people and make London safer.”