Police offer £20,000 reward after ‘homophobic murder’ in East London cemetery

Police investigating the murder of a man in east London are offering £20,000 for information that could lead to identification and conviction of his killer.

Ranjith Kankanamalage, 50, known as ‘Roy’, was violently attacked and killed in Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park on Thursday, 16 August, in what detectives have called a homophobic hate crime.

They also released images of two men near the cemetery at the time of the attack who might might be possible witnesses and hold valuable information.

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The first of the two possible witnesses is described as medium build, with short, light coloured hair, wearing a dark t-shirt, light blue shorts, dark brown trainers and carrying a black backpack.

The second person is also of medium build but with short dark hair, wearing a dark jacket and dark trousers.

Officers are appealing for two possible witnesses, who were in the area at the time, to come forward

Detective Superintendent Pete Wallis said: “We understand that given the circumstances of the murder, people may be reluctant to come forward.

“We continue to urge anyone with information, no matter how insignificant they believe it to be, to report it to police or any of our LGBT+ partners. We are particularly appealing to the two people pictured to come forward.

He also assured the public information would be treated with “sensitivity and consideration”.

Met LGBT+ Advisory Group spokesperson Derek Lee said: “We appeal for anyone who knows anything about this horrendous crime to come forward using the many channels available.

“We are aware that, while it remains unsolved, this is causing considerable concern amongst LGBTQ+ people in Tower Hamlets and across London.

“We are advising the police on sensitive ways of keeping our parks safe and wider reassurance for all communities.

“At the same time we ask everyone to please use common sense when going home or out late at night. We must all be vigilant.”

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Mayor of Tower Hamlets John Biggs said: “We have been deeply saddened and shocked following the senseless murder of Ranjith Kankanamalage.

“Anyone with information is encouraged to come forward so that we can ensure the safety of our residents and the LGBT+ community here and across the rest of London.

“Tower Hamlets is proudly a No Place for Hate borough and hate crimes of any sort will not be tolerated.

“We have a rich history of diversity which we celebrate alongside our work to ensure we are a safe and cohesive borough, free from all forms of hate.”

Anyone with information should contact 101, giving the reference 1277/16AUG

Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or to GALOP on 0207 7704 2040 or ELOP on 020 8509 3898.

If you have a story please email [email protected].

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https://www.mylondon.news/news/east-london-news/police-investigating-east-london-homophobic-21830293

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