A local man has been sentenced to life in prison for the murder of a 15-year-old schoolboy in Wolverhampton.
20-year-old Nehemie Tampwo from Fern Grove, Bletchley, is among a group of four gang members that have been jailed for their part in killing Keelan Wilson on 29 May 2018.
Tyrique King, of Chelwood Gardens, Zenay Pennant-Phillips from North Green, Wolverhampton, and Brian Sasa, of Long Ley, Heath Town, aged 20, have also been charged with murder.
Brian Sasa, Nehemie Tampwo, and Tyrique King will each serve a minimum of 18 years, and Zennay Pennant-Phillips will serve 17 years, before they will be eligible to apply for parole.
The gang-related incident that took place in 2018 saw the group attack Keelan Wilson while he was sat in a taxi. The schoolboy was stabbed 43 times.
Detective Inspector Nick Barnes, from West Midlands Police's homicide team, said: “Keelan’s death was unnecessary and tragic. He was brutally murdered by a group of young men who chose to carry knives.
“It’s a tragic reality that we’ve seen an increasing number of young people who decide to carry weapons."
Detective Inspector Barnes continued: “Keelan was a child who had his whole life ahead of him. His loss is felt by many, the shocking amount of violence on our streets was senseless and completely incomprehensible.
“Our investigation has been incredibly complex and it’s taken some time to get those responsible charged and put through the court process. However, throughout, we shared the same desire as Keelan’s family, to bring them to justice.
“I hope the outcome today offers them some comfort. My thoughts remain with them."
The 15-year-old's death was a culmination of increasing acts of violence between opposing gangs in Wolverhampton.
There had been a series of incidents at various locations across the city in the days and weeks preceding. There were also a number of outbreaks of violence and disorder earlier that day.
