Two People have been released on bail after a man was stabbed to death in Canterbury city centre on Thursday night.

Police were called to a disturbance in High Street, near the junction with St Margaret’s Street, at 11:31pm. Emergency services attended, and a 23-year-old man was found with fatal injuries consistent with stab wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Four men, all in their 20s, were arrested as part of the investigation. Two suspects remain in police custody for questioning, while the other two have been bailed until January 9 and 10.

As part of the ongoing investigation, searches have been conducted at properties in Herne Bay High Street and near Pine Tree Avenue in Canterbury. Forensic officers and a heavy police presence have been working throughout the area.

A large cordon was placed across a significant portion of the city centre, affecting businesses and pedestrians. The cordon spanned from St Margaret’s Street to the High Street, and from Guildhall Street to Stour Street, with private ambulance crews attending the scene by mid-morning on Friday.

Canterbury District Commander Chief Inspector Paul Stoner sought to reassure the public, saying, “We understand that this incident and its location will have caused concern in the community, and I would like to reassure people that we have a large team of officers and detectives working to establish the full circumstances.”

Local traders expressed their shock, with one shop owner commenting on the sudden appearance of a crime scene near their business.

Anyone with information who has not yet spoken to officers is urged to contact Kent Police on 01843 222289, quoting reference 46/172197/24, or to contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555111.