Two Teens Plead Guilty to Brutal Machete Murder of 14-Year-Old Kelyan Bokassa in Woolwich

LONDON – May 23, 2025: Two 16-year-old boys have pleaded guilty to the murder of 14-year-old schoolboy Kelyan Bokassa, who was stabbed 27 times on a bus in Woolwich, southeast London, earlier this year.

The attack happened on January 7, 2025, making Kelyan the first teenager killed by knife crime in London this year.

What Happened?

Kelyan was sitting on the top deck of the 472 bus in Woolwich Church Street when the two teens boarded and immediately attacked him with machetes. CCTV footage showed the murder was a targeted and premeditated act, not a random or spontaneous confrontation.

Prosecutor Tom Little KC told the court: “The two pulled out machetes and attacked the deceased, who was either stabbed or attempted to be stabbed a total of 27 times.”

Bystanders on the bus tried to help the injured boy, moving him to the lower deck while the driver called 999. Despite their efforts, Kelyan died at the scene. A coroner later confirmed he died from a wound to his right thigh.

Court Proceedings at the Old Bailey

The two teenage attackers appeared at the Old Bailey on Friday, where they both admitted:

• Murder

• Possession of bladed articles (machetes)

Initially, one of the boys was expected to deny the murder charge and go to trial. However, he unexpectedly pleaded guilty in court. His barrister, Charles Langley KC, requested a brief adjournment to confirm the plea, after which it was made official.

Both boys remain unnamed due to their age.

Aftermath and Sentencing

Kelyan’s mother was heard crying in court as the guilty pleas were entered. Members of his family were present throughout the hearing.

The court heard that one of the teens threw his machete into the River Thames after the killing. He also had a previous conviction from 2023 for carrying a knife.

Judge Mark Lucraft KC, Recorder of London, adjourned the case for sentencing on Friday, July 25, 2025. Both defendants are in custody and face automatic life sentences due to the severity of the crime.

Victim Profile: Who Was Kelyan Bokassa?

Kelyan Bokassa was a 14-year-old aspiring rapper and school student. He had no known gang affiliations and was simply on his way home from school when he was attacked.

His murder has shocked the city and reignited calls for stronger action against youth violence and knife crime in the capital.