In a tragic incident that has shaken the community of Woolwich, two teenagers have been formally charged with the murder of 14-year-old Kelyan Bokassa. The young victim was fatally stabbed while traveling on the 472 bus on Woolwich Church Road on January 7, 2025.
Two boys, aged 15 and 16, are scheduled to appear at Bromley Youth Court. Their identities are being protected due to their age and ongoing legal proceedings. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) confirmed their authorization of the charges following a thorough investigation by the Metropolitan Police. David Malone of the CPS expressed his condolences, stating, “Our thoughts remain with Kelyan’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
The CPS also issued a crucial reminder regarding the importance of avoiding any reporting, commentary, or online sharing of information that could potentially prejudice the upcoming trial. This caution emphasizes the need to uphold the defendants’ right to a fair trial and ensure the integrity of the judicial process.
In the wake of the stabbing, the Met’s Specialist Crime Command conducted a thorough investigation, culminating in three arrests on January 15th. In addition to the two teenagers charged with murder, a 44-year-old woman was also arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender. She has since been released under investigation, indicating that inquiries into her potential involvement are still ongoing. The community now awaits the legal proceedings as they grapple with the loss of a young life and the circumstances surrounding this devastating event.
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