Police name two teenagers they want to speak to after boy, 14, killed on bus

Detectives investigating the murder of a 14-year-old boy who was stabbed to death on a bus in south-east London have named two teenagers they want to speak to.

Aspiring rapper Kelyan Bokassa was fatally injured on a route 472 bus in Woolwich Church Street, near Woolwich Ferry, just before 2.30pm on January 7.

Officers would like to speak to Colin Chabikwa, 15, and Mosawar Zazi, 16, and are appealing for the public’s help in locating them, according to the Metropolitan Police.

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 inquiries. 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.”

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.

The 14-year-old’s killing sparked a flurry of online commentary, including references to another teenager who met a violent death in the same area of London almost four months ago.

Daejaun Campbell, 15, was stabbed to death in Eglinton Road, Woolwich, on September 22 last year, less than a mile-and-a-half away from where Kelyan was killed.

The Metropolitan Police said that no links have been established between the two.

There was also a non-fatal stabbing at around 4.20pm on January 6 in Prince Imperial Road, Woolwich, which led to an 18-year-old man being admitted to hospital. It is not thought to be linked to Kelyan’s murder.

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

Some 10 teenagers were killed in London last year, nine of whom were the victims of stabbings while one died in a shooting, according to data compiled by the PA news agency.

Published: 14/01/2025 by Radio NewsHub