Groomed by Gangs at 6, Dead at 14: Tragic End for Boy Stabbed on London Bus in Broad Daylight as Police Hunt Killers

Hi and welcome to this Video Production News update.

A fatal stabbing on a London bus has once again cast a grim spotlight on knife crime in the capital, claiming the life of a 14-year-old boy, now identified as KEYLAN BOKASSA.

This tragic incident occurred on Tuesday, as the teenager travelled aboard the 472 bus along Woolwich Church Street, heading toward Abbey Wood in south-east London. The attack took place in broad daylight at approximately 2:30 PM. Despite the swift arrival of paramedics and police, Kelyan was pronounced dead at the scene shortly after emergency responders arrived.

Detectives from the Metropolitan Police continue to pursue the suspects with urgency, but no arrests have been made as of yet. Ch Supt Louise Sargent, Deputy Commander responsible for policing the area, described the murder as “horrendous.” She extended her sympathies to the victim’s family and friends, stating:

“Our thoughts at this time are with the victim’s family and friends. This is a horrendous crime, and I can’t imagine what they must be going through right now.”

She reassured residents by promising an increased police presence in the area in the aftermath of the attack.

A Troubled Life Ended Too Soon

Kelyan Bokassa’s death marks a tragic end to a life marred by turmoil. His mother, Mary Bokassa, described her son as “caring, very caring” and creative, highlighting his passions for music, drawing, and football. However, she also spoke candidly about his struggles. She revealed that Kelyan had been groomed by gangs from as young as six years old and had spent time in care due to his vulnerability.

According to court records that VPN had previously been reviewing, Kelyan was also due to appear in court next week to face a charge of carrying a large machete in a public place.

Ms Bokassa shared her anguish, stating she had repeatedly sought help to protect her son, but without success. She recalled:

“I feel hurt because I tried to prevent it. I’ve tried so many, so many times. I screamed it, I said, ’my son is going to be killed.’”

The stabbing of Kelyan has chilling echoes of another recent tragedy in Woolwich. Just three months ago, 15-year-old Daejaun Campbell who we previously reported was fatally stabbed on Eglinton Road, less than two miles from the scene of Tuesday’s attack. In a poignant twist of fate, Kelyan had paid tribute to Daejaun, laying flowers at a memorial site in September.

Mark Rodney, representing Project Lifeline, an anti-knife crime charity, spoke on the pervasive cycle of violence, referencing how one victim’s death can ripple through the lives of others:

“We’ve seen far too many young lives lost to knives, and the toll on these communities is immeasurable.”

According to official statistics, 11 teenage boys have died due to homicide in London in 2024 alone.

Vince Seesarun, 31, an estate agent manager, described the chaotic aftermath of the attack:

“There were loads of sirens around the bus. I’m not sure what’s going on at this point. After 30 minutes to an hour, more ambulances and police were coming.”

He further detailed shocking footage of individuals running away from the scene, one of whom appeared to wield a machete:

“One had a massive machete about the size of my forearm. They couldn’t even be 18. It’s young kids.”

Police have reiterated their appeal for information. Anyone who witnessed the incident or who may have knowledge of the suspects involved is urged to come forward.

“We are working at pace to identify those responsible,” Ch Supt Sargent stated.

Crime scene cordons remain in place, and police inquiries continue.

As part of our campaign to improve citizens’ access and understanding of UK Criminal law, we will be explaining the relevant UK legislation surrounding any case law relevant to our articles:

Legal Context and Sentencing for Knife Crime in the UK

Under the UK’s Prevention of Crime Act 1953 and related legislation, carrying a knife or offensive weapon in a public place without a lawful excuse is a serious criminal offence. Recent legislative updates have seen the introduction of tougher sentences as part of the government’s ongoing effort to combat knife crime.

• Possession of a blade or offensive weapon in a public place without reasonable excuse carries a maximum prison sentence of four years.

• Using a knife to cause serious injury or death can lead to significantly harsher penalties, including life imprisonment for murder, where the use of a knife automatically increases the minimum starting point to 25 years for offenders aged 18 or over.

The sentencing for youth offenders varies depending on age, prior criminal history, and the gravity of the offence. In many cases involving young offenders, courts also consider rehabilitation orders, although public safety and deterrence often weigh heavily in sentencing decisions.

Law enforcement agencies, courts, and advocacy groups continue to urge the public to report information about knife-related offences, as community intelligence plays a pivotal role in prevention and enforcement.

Kelyan Bokassa’s death is a stark reminder of the persistent scourge of knife crime. This is a developing story, and further updates will follow as new information emerges.

Well, that’s all for now. But until our next article, please stay tuned, stay informed, but most of all stay safe, and I’ll see you then.

Bénédict Tarot Freeman

Editor-at-Large

VPN City-Desk

citydesk@vpnldn.co.uk