Life for Man Who Stabbed Teen in 2017 Walthamstow Murder
A 23-year-old has been handed a life sentence for the brutal stabbing of 18-year-old Kacem Mokrane in Walthamstow back in 2017.
Christopher Wilson, from Templar Drive, SE28, was sentenced at the Old Bailey on Thursday, 27 February 2025. He must serve at least 16 years before parole can be considered.
Wilson was found guilty of murder on 12 December 2024 following a retrial. He is now the fifth person convicted over the attack that shocked east London.
Kacem’s Family Breaks Silence: “No Forgiveness for Killer”
Heartbroken, Kacem’s family spoke of the devastating loss:
“There are no words to express the unimaginable grief that we have suffered. The manner in which Kacem was murdered has had a life-changing impact on our family.”
“We will never share another meal with Kacem or watch him achieve his dreams. His caring and funny personality will only be a painful memory to us all.”
“As a family, we have discussed the topic of ‘forgiveness’. We consider that the actions of Christopher Wilson, his lack of remorse, and the cowardice he has shown by denying his guilt do not deserve our forgiveness.”
“He is a dangerous individual and should be taken off the streets for as long as is legally possible.”
The family also thanked the police and legal team for their tireless work in securing justice for Kacem.
Knife Attack Tied to East London Gang Feud
Kacem was attacked on 16 November 2017 amid an ongoing feud between rival east London gangs. Police were called to Mount Pleasant Road at 11:15pm after reports of a violent brawl involving males armed with knives, machetes, and swords.
Kacem was ambushed and stabbed at least twice before his attackers fled. He was rushed to the Royal London Hospital where he underwent emergency surgery but died four days later on 20 November.
A post-mortem revealed the cause of death was multi-organ failure caused by complications from his stab wound.
Police Vow to Crack Down on Gang Violence
Detective Inspector Ben Dalloway of the Specialist Crime Command praised the investigation that led to five convictions:
“Kacem’s family have waited seven-and-a-half years for this moment. They have had to relive the events of that day, but today we have witnessed the jailing of a fifth person in connection with the murder.”
“Wilson’s conviction and sentencing should serve as a stark reminder to anyone involved in this level of violence that we will continue to search for you in order to put you before the courts.”
Other Convictions Linked to the Murder
In June 2023, four other men were convicted and jailed for their roles in Kacem’s murder:
- Hamza Ul-Haq
- Luca Griffiths
- Abdirisak Ali
- Kamil Kazmierski
London’s Struggle with Gang Knife Crime Continues
This tragic case highlights the ongoing crisis of gang violence and knife crime in London. Authorities continue to urge young people to steer clear of gangs and call on communities to help tackle violent crime.
Anyone with information on gang-related violence is urged to contact police or anonymously report via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
