The family of a man “unlawfully killed” while being deported has said their lives are on hold until someone stands trial for his death.

Ilford Recorder: Adrienne Makenda Kambana, the widow of Jimmy Mubenga, outside Isleworth Crown Court after the inquest verdict. Picture: Press AssociationAdrienne Makenda Kambana, the widow of Jimmy Mubenga, outside Isleworth Crown Court after the inquest verdict. Picture: Press Association (Image: PA Archive/Press Association Images)

Gants Hill resident Jimmy Mubenga, 46, died in 2010 at Heathrow Airport on a plane to his native Angola after being restrained by security guards.

Seven months after an inquest found he was unlawfully killed, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has still not decided whether to bring charges against the three guards, who worked for scandal-plagued private firm G4S.

And more than three years after his death, Mr Mubenga’s family do not know whether anyone will be held responsible for his death.

Mr Mubenga’s 19-year-old son, Roland, has written to the director of public prosecutions calling for action.

He said: “We cannot rest or get on with our lives while this trauma hangs over us and we need closure.

“Until the men stand trial for their action we will remain desolate. Our lives are on hold while we wait your decision.”

Mr Mubenga’s heart stopped after he was forcibly restrained for more than half an hour because he allegedly attacked a guard.

Other passengers on the flight said they heard Mr Mubenga calling for help because he could not breathe and shouting: “They’re going to kill me.”

The CPS said they would reconsider the initial decision not to press charges following the inquest.

Roland said his family were “traumatised” and had waited long enough for an answer.

He added: “My brothers and I have been without the support and guidance that a father can give.

“My mother is without a breadwinner and has to cope on her own.

“My little sister has never known her father who loved her dearly.

“We cannot rest or get on with our lives while this trauma hangs over us and we do not have any idea whether the CPS has an intention of taking action.”

The father-of-five had lived in Woodford Avenue, Gants Hill, with his wife Adrienne Makenda Kambana since 1994.

He was deported after serving a prison sentence for assault.

Legal charity INQUEST, which is supporting Mr Mubenga’s family, called the CPS’s delay “appalling”.

Co-director Deborah Coles said: “Such a long wait has only exacerbated the trauma his family has already experienced.”

The Redbridge Equalities and Community Council also demanded action, saying the “time for procrastination is over”.

A CPS spokesman said the family was being kept updated on progress.

He added: “We appreciate fully that the circumstances of Mr Mubenga’s death were very distressing for his family and their desire for a resolution is completely understandable.”