Javon Riley on Trial After 9-Year-Old Girl Shot in East London Gang Attack

A nine-year-old girl was shot in the head during a gang-related shooting in Dalston, East London, the Old Bailey heard on Tuesday. The attack happened outside a busy restaurant and was part of an assassination attempt tied to a long-standing rivalry between the Tottenham Turks and Hackney Turks.

What Happened in Dalston?

The shooting took place on the evening of May 29, 2024, outside Evin Restaurant on Kingsland High Street. Gunshots were fired at three men sitting outside — Ali Nasser (43), Kenan Aydogdu (45), and Mustafa Kiziltam (38). All are linked to the Hackney Turks, also known as the Bombacilars or Bombers.

While the gunman fired six bullets, one stray bullet hit a young girl who was sitting with her family nearby. The bullet lodged in her brain, and she had to undergo major skull surgery using titanium. Doctors say she will suffer from lifelong physical and cognitive problems.

Who Is Javon Riley?

Javon Riley, 33, from Farnborough, Hampshire, is now standing trial at the Old Bailey. He denies four charges of attempted murder and an alternative charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

Although Riley is not a direct member of the Tottenham Turks, prosecutors claim he was closely connected to them and played a key role in the shooting. The gunman, who escaped on a red Ducati Monster motorbike, is still at large.

Riley’s Alleged Role in the Attack

According to prosecutors, Riley was involved in the planning, reconnaissance, and getaway after the shooting. After the shots were fired, the gunman fled the scene and met Riley, who was waiting in a stolen Nissan Juke with false plates. They later switched to Riley’s Range Rover to continue their escape.

The court also heard that the vehicles used in the attack were set on fire to destroy evidence.

In recorded conversations months after the shooting, Riley discussed Izzet Eren, a known figure from the Tottenham Turks, who was killed in Moldova on July 10, 2024, in a suspected revenge attack. He also mentioned Kemal Eren, another alleged gang figure.

Prosecutor James Mulholland KC told the jury: “The only reason someone did not die that night was luck. Javon Riley helped make this attack happen.”