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The uncle of a man killed on the streets of Leicester has made an emotional plea for calm and unit after four people died in a suspect revenge attack gone wrong.

Antoin Akpom, 20, was found by police lying injured in the street on Thursday night and died later in hospital.

It is understood that Leicestershire Police are investigating whether the killing is linked to a house fire that killed four members of one family.

(Image: Raymonds Press)

Antoin's uncle has paid heartfelt tribute to his nephew and urged the community to stay calm at such an emotional time.

He said: "Antoin was a loving and devoted father, a hard working young man recognised as a positive role model for all sections of the community.

"The memory of his infectious smile and kindness will remain with everyone that knew him.

"An innocent life has been lost and the family calls for everyone to keep calm and united and to assist the police with their inquiry so that the people who did this will be brought to justice.

"He was from a good family. His mother Cheryl is well known for her work in the community and promoting community cohesion, and more than ever we need cohesion in the community now."

Mr Akpom's uncle also spoke of his sympathy with relatives of the family who died in the fire.

He said: "Our deepest condolences go to the Taufiq family from Wood Hill who have also tragically lost family members."

(Image: PA)

Neurosurgeon Muhammad Taufiq al Sattar lost his wife Shehnila Taufiq and three children, daughter Zainab, 19 and sons Jamal, 17, and Bilal, 15, in the fire.

He said: "I deeply miss my beautiful wife and three beautiful children.

"What has happened has happened, and nothing can be reversed, but I hope justice prevails and in future this should not happen to any family."

Police originally detained three women - aged 19, 20 and 27 - and two men aged 19 and 49 on Saturday in connection with the blaze, though two of the women have since been released without charge.

Roger Bannister, Assistant Chief Constable of Leicestershire Police, said: "While we are investigating links between the two crimes there is absolutely no evidence to suggest those who died in the fire, or indeed anyone else who lives in that property, was involved in the assault in Kent Street.

"Because of the close proximity - in terms of time and location - of the two incidents, it is right that we look at whether there are links between the two crimes."