Murder Trial Reveals Gang’s High-Risk Tactics in Kidnapping Turkish DJ
Two men are currently on trial for the alleged kidnap, false imprisonment, and murder of a Turkish community DJ who was tortured to death in north London.
According to the murder trial at the Old Bailey, a gang took a significant risk in kidnapping the popular Turkish DJ, Koray Alpergin, 43, after he had dinner with his girlfriend in Mayfair on Oct. 13, 2022. The DJ was later tortured and killed at the Stadium Lounge in north London, sustaining a total of 94 injuries.
The accused individuals, Isay Stoyanov, 43, and Dylan Weatherley, 20, deny all charges of kidnap, false imprisonment, murder, and manslaughter, as well as perverting the course of justice. Mr. Stoyanov, a Turkish-speaking Bulgarian national, and Mr. Weatherley are currently on trial, while a third individual, Kyrie Mitchell-Peart, 31, who pleaded guilty to kidnap and false imprisonment, will not stand trial.
Bulgarian National in the Dock
Prosecutor Crispin Aylett, KC, revealed that Mr. Alpergin and his girlfriend were ambushed by a group of eight men upon their return home in Enfield, north London. Despite attempting to escape, Mr. Alpergin was captured and driven away with his girlfriend in a van.
A disturbing CCTV clip with audio of Mr. Alpergin pleading for his life was presented to the jury. The prosecutor linked the abduction, torture, and murder to “serious organized crime” and likely drug-related activities.
Risk of Neighbour ‘Thwarting the Kidnap’
Mr. Aylett emphasized the considerable risk taken by the gang in kidnapping Mr. Alpergin in a residential area rather than opting for a swift and lethal approach. He suggested that the motive behind the torture was either punishment for past actions or to extract information about drugs or money.
Furthermore, Mr. Weatherley’s involvement in the kidnapping was highlighted, while Mr. Stoyanov’s role was less clear as he was not present during the incident but allegedly aided in cleaning up the crime scene. Four other men were previously convicted in connection to Mr. Alpergin’s death.
The trial is expected to continue until mid-August as the investigation unfolds.
