News / Crime
Brothers bailed in time for funeral of Jama Powell
The family of Jamel Powell, who was killed in Stokes Croft in December, will be reunited for his funeral on Friday.
Described as a “dear son, father, brother, friend and community icon”, the 37-year-old, known as Jama, died from multiple stab wounds at Blue Mountain in the early hours of December 30.
Two men, Ian Wayne Power and Errol Anderson have appeared in court charged with his murder.
Jama’s two younger brothers, Rafiki and Meikel, were subsequently arrested and charged with grievous bodily harm in connection with an altercation outside the club. They were due to be held until July and faced missing their brother’s funeral.
A makeshift shrine was left outside Blue Mountain in memory of Jama Powell
Meikel was granted bail last week and a petition calling for Rafiki to be released in time for the funeral gained more than 2,400 signatures.
Rafiki was granted bail at an appeal hearing at Bristol Crown Court on Wednesday, meaning he will be able to pay his last respects to Jama with his family by his side.
The petition read: “As to be expected, the two young men are very traumatised by the tragic loss of their brother and seeking the comfort of their family.
“Like any human after the tragic loss of a family member, we believe a prison cell is no place for them at this horrendous and cruel time.
“We have received a public outcry of sadness, anger and frustration from the community as a whole at the imprisonment of the two siblings.”
After Wednesday’s verdict, a simple statement was posted: “Thanks for all your support, we couldn’t have did it without you.”
The funeral will be held in Bristol on Friday.
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