Fatal Stabbing of 14-Year-Old in Woolwich Exposes Gang Grooming Crisis

The killing of Kelyan Bokassa highlights systemic failures to protect vulnerable youth from gang exploitation and violence in London.

Kelyan Bokassa, 14, was fatally stabbed on a bus in Woolwich, becoming the first teenage knife crime victim in London this year.
His mother revealed that Kelyan had been groomed by gangs from a young age and struggled to escape their influence despite her repeated pleas for help.
Anti-knife crime advocates criticized local authorities for failing to provide adequate relocation support for at-risk youth, which might have saved Kelyan's life.
Police are investigating the murder and have increased stop-and-search powers in the area, citing fears of further youth violence.
The case sheds light on broader societal issues, including poverty, lack of youth services, and the systemic exploitation of children by gangs in the capital.