Accused gang member denies revenge shooting

An alleged gang member has denied killing an innocent Sainsbury’s worker in a botched revenge hit two days after a grime artist was gunned down.

Kwaso Mensah-Ababio, 26, was shot in the head while sipping a soft drink on bench in Monks Park, Harrow, northwest London on 7 July 2019.

He was killed by a gang looking for Darren Buchanan, a leading figure in the street gang St Raphs, after grime artist Craig Small, 32, had been killed two days earlier.

Mr Mensah-Ababio was described as being strikingly similar to Mr Buchanan in appearance but was totally unconnected to the killing.

Taalib Rowe, 27, appeared at the Old Bailey today (weds) charged with the manslaughter of Nr Mensah-Ababio.

Rowe appeared via video link from HMP Whitemoor, wearing a grey jumper, and denied the charge after confirming his details.

He was remanded in custody ahead of a further hearing at the Old Bailey 3 March.

Rowe, of Cardigan Street, Luton, denies manslaughter.