The Metropolitan Police in the United Kingdom have charged a 17-year-old boy with murder in connection with the fatal stabbing of a Nigerian national, John Onetufo, in south-east London.

Onetufo, 23, was discovered with multiple stab wounds to the chest after police responded to an emergency call on Grove Street, Lewisham, on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. Despite the intervention of paramedics, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

In a statement released by the Metropolitan Police and obtained on Tuesday, authorities confirmed that the teenage suspect was formally charged with murder on Monday, January 5, 2026.

Owing to his age, the suspect’s identity has not been disclosed. He is expected to appear before the Bromley Magistrates’ Youth Court.

Detective Chief Inspector Samantha Townsend, who is heading the investigation, described the charge as a major breakthrough while noting that the inquiry is far from concluded.

“This is a significant development, but our investigation remains ongoing as we work to establish the full circumstances surrounding what happened,” Townsend said, adding that detectives are continuing to pursue all available lines of inquiry.

She also extended condolences to the victim’s family and friends, assuring them that police remain determined to secure justice.

She further revealed that two other suspects previously arrested in connection with the case have been released on bail.

A 23-year-old man, arrested on January 2 on suspicion of murder, and an 18-year-old woman, detained on January 4 on suspicion of perverting the course of justice, were both bailed pending the conclusion of investigations.