The brother of a seven-year-old boy killed in an arson attack at his family home in Deptford is a convicted drug dealer who was recently released from prison.

Joel Urhie died after a house fire early on Tuesday (August 7) morning in Adolphus Street.

Police believe the arson attack may have been gang-related after reports suggested Joel’s brother Sam, 21, may have been the target.

Sam was jailed for four years and four months after pleading guilty to possession of cocaine and heroin with intent to supply.

He was sentenced at Woolwich Crown Court in February 2016.

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A neighbour, who does not want to be identified, confirmed Sam was recently released from prison, adding: "This is definitely gang-related, 100 per cent."

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Wrigley said police are keeping an "open mind concerning motive" for the murder.

He said: "This horrific incident has left a family shattered and the tragic loss of such a young life in suspicious circumstances resonates throughout the community in Deptford.

"Our sympathies are with Joel's family and friends at this tragic time as they struggle to come to terms with their loss.

"I would directly appeal to anyone who was in the area and saw anything suspicious at around 3.30am, or who has any information about who was responsible for starting the fire that claimed the life of an innocent child, to contact police immediately."

READ MORE - Everything we know so far about the arson murder of little Joel Urhie in Deptford

A post-mortem examination found the cause of Joel's death was "consistent with fire and smoke inhalation".

Anyone with information on this fire is requested to call police on 101 quoting CAD 933/07Aug or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.