UK court finds man guilty of murdering Rwandan model

A man who stabbed a Rwandan woman to death in the UK was on Wednesday found guilty of murder and faces life in jail. David Gikawa, 39, on July 31, 2013 stabbed to death Linah Keza, 29, from her home in Leyton, London, court ruled. A jury sitting in the Central Criminal Court of Justice at Old Bailey, London, found Gikawa guilty of 11 accounts including murder. Gikawa, while appearing before court, had pleaded not guilty to all the charges. Detective Inspector Ken Hughes said: “Gikawa launched a violent attack on his ex-partner and mother of his young child. He showed no remorse even when confronted by a concerned neighbour who had come to rescue the victim. “I am pleased that the jury has convicted him for murder. He will now have plenty of time in prison to contemplate on the consequences of his actions and how they affect all those who knew and loved Linah Keza.” Keza’s family welcomed the sentence. “Our family has been gravely traumatised both emotionally and physically by this brutal act of violence and the loss of a loved one. A life sentence will not bring our sister back but will definately serve as a deterrent and proof that justice has been served,” Keza’s elder sister Susan Asiimwe said after the ruling. Keza’s death attracted media attention both in Rwanda and the UK as relatives and friends expressed agony over a life lost so young. “We would like to thank the people who have provided us with physical and emotional support. Among them include, the British Justice system, UK police liaison officers, the social services, the Government of Rwanda and the many friends that have supported us,” Asiimwe said. Keza’s brother-in-law Robert Ssali, also welcomed the sentence and suggested that Keza’s three-year old daughter, Holly Latoya, be brought to Rwanda so that she can grow up with her relatives rather than a foster family. Gikawa murdered Keza after she decided to end an alleged violent relationship with him. She was reportedly trying to secure a restraining order against Gikawa by the time she was murdered. The court is expected to deliver a sentence today

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UK court finds man guilty of murdering Rwandan model