Family of ‘true friend’ and ‘hero’ pay tribute

At around 2.35am on Thursday 7 December 2023, officers attended a property on Great Cheetham Street West and found a body of a man after searching the surrounding area of the property.

Two men were arrested at the scene with a further man later arrested, all on suspicion of murder. They have been released on bail pending further investigation.

Greater Manchester Police have confirmed the victim’s name as 43-year-old Tanyaradzwa Julius Matera, known to his family as Julius.

Julius Matera

Paying tribute to him, his family said:

“A tribute to a true friend and hero in our lives, our family will never be the same after the unfortunate and abrupt ending to the life of Tanyaradzwa Julius Matera.

“Tanyaradzwa was always our template for the qualities of love, empathy and humility. He showed us how to smile all the time and we feel robbed.

From the Zimbabwean community: “We remember a loyal and caring man whose life has been taken away.

“His contribution to the Manchester community covered all areas of politics, social entertainment, and community cohesion.”

Officers are still appealing to anyone that might have an information into Julius’ death to please get in touch with police, this includes any relevant footage such as mobile, doorbell, CCTV or dashcam to contact us on 0161 856 3635, quoting log number 218 of 07/12/2023.

Alternatively, call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Information can also be uploaded to GMP's Major Incident Public Portal - https://mipp.police.uk/operation/06GMP23F27-PO1