Knife Maniac Who Trapped Police with Fake Emergency Call Locked Up for 15 Years
A 20-year-old man who tricked police into a deadly trap with a bogus 999 call before unleashing a savage knife attack has been sentenced to 15 years behind bars.
Trap Set With Fake Fight Call
Alex Traykov, from Brighton Road, Redhill, was found guilty of multiple grievous bodily harm charges at the Old Bailey on 16 April. On 6 October 2018, he made a false emergency call claiming a fight between two men was underway at a house on Liverpool Road, Islington. In reality, Traykov was lying in wait, armed with a huge knife.
Four officers – two men, two women – arrived at the scene, unaware they were walking into a deadly ambush. CCTV footage showed them approaching the dark, quiet house before Traykov opened the door.
Brutal Stabbing Attack on Officers
When PC Said-Ali rang the doorbell, Traykov stood emotionless with a knife hidden behind his back. He suddenly attacked, cutting her head and hand. The officer fell down the steps as Traykov launched a vicious attack on all four officers, slashing and stabbing as they struggled to escape.
PC Thomson and PC Kedziora took multiple blows to the face and head. The officers fell down the stairs with Traykov pursuing, even throwing the knife at PC Watkins. She fired her taser twice, finally bringing him down so the team could restrain him.
Horrific Injuries, Chilling Courage
- One officer had cuts needing 13 stitches plus injuries to elbow, knee, and leg.
- PC Said-Ali suffered a head wound that caused bleeding and fainting, requiring hospital treatment.
- Other officers faced fractures and a 15cm forearm cut.
The 23cm blade was recovered with the victim’s blood on it. Traykov refused to explain his savage, unprovoked attack and was charged with four counts of attempted murder.
Police Praise Bravery, Call for Tough Justice
“This case highlights the very real risk police face daily and the courage officers show,” said Detective Inspector Kate Stannard. “The sentence reflects the seriousness of this crime which left huge physical and mental scars.”
Detective Constable Ed Sehmer described the attack as “traumatic” and “terrifying.” “These officers were only doing their duty when they were lured into a trap,” he said.
Officers Speak Out
PC Ben Thomson: “This was the most stressful time of my life. We did our job and were met with savage violence. Our injuries will heal, but the mental scars may never.”
PC Launa Watkins: “I didn’t expect to fight for my life that night against a knife-wielding attacker. We never gave up, but I hope no officer has to face such brutality.”
PC Rafal Kedziora: “We run towards danger, but this attack left me with life-changing physical and mental scars.”
PC Istarlin Said-Ali: “No training prepares you for facing death at work. We’re human and deserve to feel safe doing our job. I hope this sentence warns anyone thinking of knife crime that justice will be ruthless.”
Traykov’s 15-year jail term sends a clear message: knife attacks on police won’t be tolerated, and those who target our officers will face the full force of the law.
