Police have issued a ‘do not approach’ warning to two teenagers after a 14-year-old boy was stabbed to death on a bus in Woolwich.
Detectives investigating the murder of Kelyan Bokassa, 14, have said they want to speak to Colin Chabikwa, 15, and Mosawar Zazi, 16.
Kelyan was attacked and killed as he travelled on the 472 bus on Woolwich Church Road on January 6.
No arrests have been made.
The Metropolitan Police said they are following ‘a number of lines of inquiry’ relating to the murder investigation, which has led to them wanting to speak to the teenagers.
They have urged the public to dial 999 if they see Chabikwa and Zazi.
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 enquiries. 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.’
Kelyan’s mum told Metro her son was ‘very kind and caring’ and dreamed of becoming a chef after being inspired by Jamie Oliver.
She said: ‘My son and others were taken advantage of by gangs. They were groomed. He was on edge very scared going out.’
She added she feared for his safety when he was out on the streets of London.
She told Metro: ‘It was his first day back at school. He was out with his uniform on, he was very proud. It was another day, he was happy.
‘He was full of life, he supported Arsenal and was good, very good, at playing football.’
Family friends later added they were left ‘shocked and disgusted’ after rap lyrics that boast about the killing were shared online.
The lyrics, posted alongside hundreds of tributes, refer to Kelyan by his rap name Grippa.
The post says: ‘Caught Grippa lackin’ on the 472 (bus). Blade in my coat, it’s do or die.
‘He tried jumping off, but the door’s don’t slide, hah.’
Jacques Tizie, a family friend speaking on behalf of Mary, told Metro: ‘Whoever the killer is we appeal to them to hand themselves in. This gang violence around here is too much. How many young boys must die?’