Appeal to locate man in connection with Hackney murder investigation

Officers are looking to locate a man in connection with an ongoing murder investigation in Hackney.

Jason Romeo, 20 was fatally stabbed outside an address in Bodney Street, E5 at 17:59hrs on Tuesday, 18 February.

An investigation remains ongoing and three men have been charged in connection with Jason’s murder.

Raynolph Asante, 22 (13.03.2002) of Pembury Road, Hackney, Travis Mitchell, 21 (23.07.2002) of Bodney Road, Hackney and Rhamyah Bailey-Edwards, 21 (21.08.2003) of Williams Avenue, Walthamstow have been charged with murder and appeared at Thames Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 24 February.

On Sunday, 23 February, an 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody.

Detectives have named and released an image of 25-year-old Renaldo Roberts, who they would like to speak with in connection with this investigation.

He has connections across Hackney and Dagenham.

Detective Superintendent Kelly Allen of Specialist Crime North said “This investigation has moved quickly with officers arresting four men within five days.

“We are now in the position to release Renaldo Robert’s details, who we would like to speak with to assist with our enquiries.

“If you have any information on his whereabouts, please do not approach him and call 999 referencing CAD 5635/18FEB.”

Following Jason Romeo’s death, officers in Hackney have been utilising additional stop and search powers this week.

A section 60 order was authorised for the area during the weekend, giving officers the power to stop and search a person without reasonable suspicion.

Detective Superintendent Vicky Tunstall of Central East Command Unit said:

“We understand that the increased police presence in Hackney this week will be concerning for residents.

“Our officers will remain in the area carrying out increased patrols. I’d encourage residents to discuss any concerns they may have with officers on patrol.

“Reducing knife crime is a key focus and we will continue to work closely with partners for a safe borough.

“I’d encourage anyone with information about those who could cause harm within our community, to contact us directly or through Crimestoppers.”

Anyone with any information about the whereabouts of Renaldo Roberts is asked to contact the police on 999 as soon as possible, quoting 5635/18Feb.