The man who became an infamous figure of both fear and folklore, bodybuilder Akinwale Arobieke – universally known as 'Purple Aki' – has been found dead at his home in Merseyside. He was 61.
His death, confirmed by police as non-suspicious, brings an end to the life of one of Britain's most enigmatic and controversial public characters. Arobieke achieved notoriety across the North of England for his intimidating, enormous physique and a series of criminal convictions that cemented his status as an urban legend.
The Infamous 'Muscle Touching' Cases
Arobieke's nickname, 'Purple Aki', stemmed from his striking appearance and was perpetuated through countless rumours and chilling playground tales. His notoriety peaked with a highly publicised conviction in 2001 for harassing teenage boys and a more recent conviction in 2016.
He pleaded guilty to 15 charges, including harassment and common assault, after approaching young men, often at gyms or train stations, and asking to feel their muscles. This bizarre and unsettling behaviour led to a rare indefinite restraining order, prohibiting him from touching any man's muscles without consent.
A Life of Controversy and Incarceration
His encounters with the law were extensive. In the 1980s, he was questioned in connection with the death of 16-year-old Gary Kelly, though no charges were brought. He was later awarded a six-figure sum for wrongful imprisonment related to that case.
Arobieke's life was marked by lengthy periods behind bars, including a three-year sentence in 2001 and another three-year term in 2016 for breaching his specific restraining order. His immense strength was the stuff of myth; he was said to perform thousands of squats daily, a regime that contributed to his colossal leg muscles.
Merseyside Police confirmed that they were called to a house in the Toxteth area of Liverpool, where Arobieke's body was discovered. A file is now being prepared for the local coroner.
