Following two stabbings in Woolwich, locals are urging for increased police presence to ensure safety in the community
Woolwich: Recently, the community has been shaken up by two stabbings involving teenagers in less than a day. It all started when a 14-year-old boy named Kelyan Bokassa was tragically killed on a bus. This happened on Woolwich Church Street, and the police are still searching for the attacker.
Just a day before that, an 18-year-old was stabbed on Prince Imperial Road. Thankfully, he’s in stable condition now. Even though these incidents were close in time and location, the police confirmed they’re not connected.
Saqib Mushtaq, who runs a cosmetics shop nearby, shared that crime is a regular issue in the area. He mentioned that young people often try to steal from his store, which is really concerning. He believes a stronger police presence could help deter this kind of behavior.
Interestingly, he noted that since the council started revamping the town center, crime has decreased a bit. They’re investing £25 million to improve the area, which includes better paving and seating. The goal is to make it harder for people to hide weapons.
However, the recent violence has made many locals uneasy. Saqib said that if customers feel unsafe, they won’t come to his shop. He’s worried about the impact on local businesses.
Roda Keela, a lifelong resident, echoed these concerns. She’s noticed more violence lately and feels it’s not safe for young people, especially after dark. She remembers a time when she wouldn’t even walk around Woolwich at night.
Roda also pointed out that gang activity is a big problem. She believes schools should teach kids about the serious consequences of crime, as many don’t seem to grasp how serious it is.
James Orpington, another local, expressed his shock at the stabbings. He’s lived in Woolwich for two years and feels generally safe, but he thinks more activities for young people could help keep them out of trouble.
He suggested more sports facilities and affordable gym memberships to combat boredom, which he believes leads to crime. He’s been lucky to avoid trouble by keeping to himself and knowing where he’s going.
A spokesperson from Greenwich Council expressed their condolences for the loss of young life to knife crime and assured the community they’re working closely with the police. Superintendent Louise Sargent mentioned that local officers are increasing patrols in response to the community’s concerns.
She emphasized that they’re committed to identifying those responsible for the stabbings and are working with local schools to help at-risk youth. The police are encouraging anyone with information to come forward, as every bit helps in making the area safer.
