Man Appears in Court Over Fatal Croydon Retail Park Stabbing
Police have formally named the individual accused of fatally stabbing a young man described by his family as a "caring, smart young man" in a Croydon retail park. Ellis Anim-Annor, aged 28 and residing at Belgravia Gardens in Bromley, was presented before Bromley Magistrates' Court this morning, Thursday, February 19, facing a charge of murder.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The victim, identified as 22-year-old Lorik Abazi, lost his life in the early hours of Sunday morning, February 15. Law enforcement officers were dispatched to Valley Retail Park at approximately 1:15 am following reports of a violent altercation. Upon arrival, they discovered Lorik and two other men suffering from stab wounds. All three were urgently transported to a nearby hospital by emergency medical personnel. Tragically, Lorik succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving at the medical facility.
In a significant development, two women, both aged 25, were initially taken into custody on suspicion of murder. However, they have not been formally charged at this stage. Scotland Yard has confirmed that both women were released on bail, although one was rearrested on Wednesday, February 18, on allegations of perverting the course of justice.
Expanding Police Investigation and Additional Arrests
The investigation has widened considerably, with authorities arresting the two other men found injured at the scene on suspicion of affray. Additionally, two women, aged 21 and 22, were also detained on similar charges. One of the male victims sustained life-threatening injuries during the incident. After receiving medical treatment and being discharged from the hospital, he was immediately taken into police custody.
All four individuals have since been released on bail pending further inquiries. In a recent update, police arrested two more women, both aged 22, this morning on suspicion of affray. They currently remain in police custody as the investigation continues.
Family's Heartbreaking Tribute and Police Appeal
In an emotional statement, Lorik Abazi's family expressed their profound grief, stating, "Lorik was a caring, smart young man with a good sense of humour and his whole future ahead of him. We, his parents, brother, girlfriend, grandparents and extended family and friends loved him very much. A light has gone out in our lives, and we are devastated beyond words by his loss." The family has respectfully requested privacy during this difficult time.
Chief Superintendent Nick Blackburn extended his condolences, saying, "My thoughts are with Lorik’s family and loved ones, who have suffered an unimaginable loss. Detectives are working around-the-clock to investigate the incident and bring those responsible to justice." He emphasized that this appears to be an isolated incident and reassured the local community by noting the increased police patrols in the area.
Authorities are actively appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone with information, CCTV footage, or dash cam recordings related to the incident is urged to submit it online via the Major Incident Public Portal or contact the police by calling 101 and quoting reference CAD 511/15FEB. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
