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Allan Chappelow |
Chappelow murder trial hears Triad gang claims
A West End “Mr Big” – well-known in Soho’s Chinatown – was behind the brutal murder of a millionaire pensioner at his rambling Hampstead mansion, it was suggested this week.
Murder accused Wang Yam claimed at the Old Bailey that a Triad gang wanted the victim, Allan Chappelow, out of the way to steal his identity and wealth.
Summing up the evidence in the seven-week trial, Mr Justice Ouseley reminded the jury panel of three women and nine men that Mr Yam, 46, a businessman of Denning Road, Hampstead, was a man of previous good character who had always maintained his innocence.
Mr Yam denies murdering Mr Chappelow, 86, at his run down house in Downshire Hill, Hampstead, in June 2006. He also denies five counts alleging theft, receiving and fraud.
Much of the case – for reasons of national security – has been heard in camera.
Mr Yam, a former university professor in Beijing who fled China after conflicts with the authorities, told the court he was used by a gang in London who were involved in kidnapping, money laundering, drugs and people smuggling.
He said he was unwittingly sucked into their crime network and that they were responsible for the terrible death of Mr Chappelow, who was “bludgeoned like a seal pup” in a downstairs room.
The judge said there was no scientific evidence linking Mr Yam to the murder scene.
The accused insisted he did not know Mr Chappelow and had never set foot inside the semi-derelict house which had been the home of the recluse for more than 70 years.
Verdicts are awaited. |
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