West Yorkshire Police have reissued an urgent appeal for information regarding three young gay men suspected of being involved in the violent killing of 18-year-old Jamie Meah in Leeds. The incident, which took place on 31 March 2023, left another 16-year-old boy seriously injured and a family devastated.
The suspects—Aquade Jeffers, Caleb Awe, and Enham Nishat—are all now aged 22 and originally from Leeds. Authorities believe the trio fled the UK shortly after the fatal stabbing, traveling through Liverpool. Their sexual orientation has become a matter of public interest, as all three are understood to have been part of the local LGBTQ+ community. Police stress that justice must be blind to such details, but awareness may aid in identifying their networks or social circles abroad.
A Tragic Attack Jamie Meah had just turned 18 when he was dragged out of a taxi in Armley and fatally stabbed. His companion, a 16-year-old boy, survived but was left with life-altering injuries. The brutality of the attack sent shockwaves through the Leeds community and intensified concerns over youth and knife crime.
In a heart-wrenching statement, Jamie’s family marked the two-year anniversary of his death with a plea for justice. “Our pain and distress will continue until all those responsible face justice,” they said. Jamie left behind a young son, who is now growing up without a father.
“Jamie was also a much-loved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, uncle, partner and friend,” the family continued. “We will never get over the heartbreak of losing him.”
Ongoing Investigation The only individual so far convicted in the case is Ranei Wilks, 23, who was sentenced to 15 years in prison for manslaughter in March 2024. However, investigators remain adamant that Wilks did not act alone.
Detective Chief Inspector Damian Roebuck, who is leading the investigation, emphasized that the search for Jeffers, Awe, and Nishat is still active. “Jamie’s death in such violent circumstances highlights the tragic and long-lasting consequences of knife crime,” he said. “We are determined to make sure all those involved answer for their crimes.”
Police Request for Information Authorities are urging anyone with information—no matter how minor it may seem—to come forward. All tips will be handled with the utmost sensitivity. Anonymity can be maintained through Crimestoppers.
The case has stirred ongoing debate around violence among young people and the broader social issues intersecting with identity and urban crime. Police have not suggested that the suspects’ sexuality had any bearing on the crime itself, but their identities might help track them through community networks abroad.
If you have information, contact West Yorkshire Police directly or through Crimestoppers UK at 0800 555 111.
