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Police launch hunt for two teenagers after Kelyan Bokassa, 14, stabbed to death on bus

Police say they are looking for two teenage boys in connecting with the murder of 14-year-old Kelyan Bokassa

Tom Watling
Tuesday 14 January 2025 20:59 GMT
Mosawar Zazi, 16 (left) and Colin Chabikwa, 15
Mosawar Zazi, 16 (left) and Colin Chabikwa, 15 (Metropolitan Police/PA)

Police have launched a manhunt for two teenagers as part of an investigation into the killing of a 14-year-old on a bus in London earlier this month.

Kelyan Bokassa, 14, was stabbed to death on a route 472 bus in Woolwich, southeast London, just before 2.30pm on 7 January.

Detectives from the Metropolitan Police investigating the murder have said they want to speak to Colin Chabikwa, 15, and Mosawar Zazi, 16.

Kelyan Bokassa was stabbed to death on a bus in London
Kelyan Bokassa was stabbed to death on a bus in London (PA)

Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Lee said: “Firstly, my thoughts are with the family and friends of Kelyan.

“I know his death has deeply affected many in the community and I would like to thank people in Woolwich for the support they have shown.

“Officers have been undertaking increased weapons searches, reassurance patrols and house-to-house enquiries. I know these can be disruptive. However, it has been vital, and your patience is appreciated.

“Our team of detectives is working around the clock to identify those responsible for Kelyan’s murder and appeal for your help to locate Chabikwa and Zazi.

“I would urge anybody with information about their whereabouts to contact us immediately by calling 999.

“If seen, we urge the public not to approach them, but to contact police as soon as possible.”

Colin Chabikwa, 15, (left) and Mosawar Zazi, 16 are pictured on a bus in Woolwich
Colin Chabikwa, 15, (left) and Mosawar Zazi, 16 are pictured on a bus in Woolwich (Metropolitan Police)

Two days after the incident, police implemented orders for 24 hours covering Woolwich and parts of surrounding areas giving them greater powers to stop and search and demand the removal of disguises, including face coverings, because of concerns there could be more violence.

One witness told The Independent he was coming out of his apartment block when he saw two hooded young people sprint past him towards the River Thames near the incident.

The 14-year-old’s mother described her son as an aspiring rapper.

Mary Bokassa told The Independent at her home: “Every time I go into Woolwich I see police officers investigating a stabbing. I guess it is just my turn now.”

Anyone with information is urged to call police on 101 giving the reference 3795/07JAN25. To remain anonymous contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.

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