Metropolitan Police Seek Two Teenagers in Fatal Woolwich Bus Stabbing
Detectives appeal for public assistance in locating two teenagers after a 14-year-old was murdered on a bus in south-east London.
The Metropolitan Police have intensified their investigation into the tragic death of Kelyan Bokassa, a 14-year-old aspiring rapper, who was fatally stabbed on a route 472 bus in Woolwich Church Street in south-east London, on the afternoon of January 7. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the local community, prompted detectives to appeal for public assistance in locating two teenagers they wish to speak to regarding the murder.
Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Lee, who is leading the investigation, publicly identified the teenagers as Colin Chabikwa, 15, and Mosawar Zazi, 16. DCI Lee expressed her condolences to the victim's family and acknowledged the profound impact of the tragic incident on the community.
She also commended the community for their support and cooperation during the intensified police activities, which include increased weapons searches, patrols, and house-to-house inquiries.
The appeal for information comes amidst heightened tensions in Woolwich, where the murder of Kelyan Bokassa is one of several violent incidents reported recently.
Just two days before the murder, a non-fatal stabbing occurred on Prince Imperial Road, raising concerns about potential connections and further violence.
However, the police have stated that there is currently no evidence linking the incidents.
The Metropolitan Police have enhanced their operational measures in the area, which include implementing orders that allow officers greater powers to stop and search individuals and require the removal of face coverings.
These measures are part of a strategy to prevent further violence in a region that saw the unsolved violent death of another teenager, Daejaun Campbell, in nearby Eglinton Road a few months prior.
Kelyan's mother, Mary Bokassa, provided a poignant tribute to her son, highlighting his love for music, football, and his caring nature.
She expressed her devastation and lamented her unsuccessful attempts to keep him safe.
Authorities released CCTV footage of the two teenagers they are seeking, emphasizing the urgency of their appeal.
The police have urged the public not to approach Chabikwa and Zazi if sighted but to contact authorities immediately by calling 999.
The brutal killing of Kelyan Bokassa has drawn attention to the broader issue of youth violence in London, where 10 teenagers were killed in the preceding year, nine of which were due to stabbings.
The efforts to solve this murder and bring those responsible to justice underscore the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement and communities in tackling knife crime and ensuring the safety of young people across the capital.
Anyone with information is strongly urged to contact the police at 101, referencing case number 3795/07JAN25, or to provide information anonymously through Crimestoppers.
Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Lee, who is leading the investigation, publicly identified the teenagers as Colin Chabikwa, 15, and Mosawar Zazi, 16. DCI Lee expressed her condolences to the victim's family and acknowledged the profound impact of the tragic incident on the community.
She also commended the community for their support and cooperation during the intensified police activities, which include increased weapons searches, patrols, and house-to-house inquiries.
The appeal for information comes amidst heightened tensions in Woolwich, where the murder of Kelyan Bokassa is one of several violent incidents reported recently.
Just two days before the murder, a non-fatal stabbing occurred on Prince Imperial Road, raising concerns about potential connections and further violence.
However, the police have stated that there is currently no evidence linking the incidents.
The Metropolitan Police have enhanced their operational measures in the area, which include implementing orders that allow officers greater powers to stop and search individuals and require the removal of face coverings.
These measures are part of a strategy to prevent further violence in a region that saw the unsolved violent death of another teenager, Daejaun Campbell, in nearby Eglinton Road a few months prior.
Kelyan's mother, Mary Bokassa, provided a poignant tribute to her son, highlighting his love for music, football, and his caring nature.
She expressed her devastation and lamented her unsuccessful attempts to keep him safe.
Authorities released CCTV footage of the two teenagers they are seeking, emphasizing the urgency of their appeal.
The police have urged the public not to approach Chabikwa and Zazi if sighted but to contact authorities immediately by calling 999.
The brutal killing of Kelyan Bokassa has drawn attention to the broader issue of youth violence in London, where 10 teenagers were killed in the preceding year, nine of which were due to stabbings.
The efforts to solve this murder and bring those responsible to justice underscore the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement and communities in tackling knife crime and ensuring the safety of young people across the capital.
Anyone with information is strongly urged to contact the police at 101, referencing case number 3795/07JAN25, or to provide information anonymously through Crimestoppers.
