A 68-year-old Somali man has pleaded guilty to manslaughter and wounding charges after a brutal knife attack at a south London market on Remembrance Sunday.
Musse Ali’s Shocking South London Stabbing Spree
Musse Ali, appearing at the Old Bailey in a grey hoodie and black coat, admitted to manslaughter, possession of a blade, and two counts of wounding with intent over the attack at East Street Market, Walworth, on 10 November 2024. However, he denies murder and attempted murder. The attack happened just before the two-minute silence on Remembrance Sunday. Victim Hilkiah McLeggan, 77, died instantly from a stab wound to the back. Two others, Ho Man Yau and Bahera Nadew Bartura, suffered serious injuries and were rushed to the hospital.
Knife Rampage Caught on CCTV
Prosecutor Danny Robinson KC revealed CCTV footage captured Ali entering the market just after 10:30am. After trying to steal from a shop and being pushed away by the shopkeeper, Ali brandished a large knife and stabbed three victims in quick succession. Witnesses say he lunged at others before market traders restrained him, stopping further bloodshed prior to police arrival.
Defence Cites Schizoaffective Disorder
Ali’s legal team argue his longstanding schizoaffective disorder impaired his judgment, making him partially responsible. Eight psychiatric reports agreed that Ali’s condition severely affected his ability to control himself during the attack. The Crown Prosecution Service accepted his pleas of diminished responsibility after a senior review. Ali was too unwell to take part in proceedings for months and is currently held at Broadmoor psychiatric hospital. His condition stabilised recently, allowing the case to move forward. Judge Nigel Lickley KC will set a sentencing date on 1 May.
