Dead Man Texted Before Brutal Stabbing: Life Sentence for Cedric Kiyago
A violent stabbing killer has been jailed for life after sending a chilling “You’re a dead man” text to his victim moments before the attack. Cedric Kiyago, already behind bars for drug offences, was sentenced to a minimum of 29 years for the savage murder of Liam Harman in Romford back in 2017.
Gruesome Attack in Romford Flats
Liam Harman, 28, was found fatally stabbed in the communal area of a block of flats on Straight Road. Police were called by paramedics at 10:37pm on 11 July 2017, who tried desperately to save Liam from multiple stab wounds. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead less than an hour later.
The post-mortem revealed a horrifying toll: ten stab wounds plus six deep cuts slashed across his face, chest, and abdomen. Two of these wounds inflicted fatal damage to his chest and stomach.
Text Message Threat Links Killer to Scene
Investigators uncovered a sinister message on Liam’s phone sent the day of the murder from a phone connected to a drug-dealing line. The message read, “Your a dead man,” and was linked directly to Cedric Kiyago, who was caught with the phone on 3 August 2017.
Both Kiyago’s phone and the victim’s were tracked near the murder spot during the killing. Police connected the dots to a bitter feud over stolen drugs — Liam had been robbing drug runners, including Kiyago’s operation.
Justice Served After Seven-Week Trial
Kiyago was found guilty of murder at the Old Bailey after a gruelling seven-week trial and sentenced to life imprisonment with a 29-year minimum term. Detective Sergeant Brett Hagen said,
“This was a vicious and sustained knife attack with terrible injuries, devastating Liam’s family and friends. Kiyago is a habitual offender who was out on licence for drug crimes. He will now spend a very long time in prison, making London safer.
Liam’s family released a heartfelt statement, saying,
“We are heartbroken that Liam was taken from us, leaving his two boys without a daddy. Nothing will ever bring him back. We thank the police and Crown Prosecution Service for their dedication to justice.
With Cedric Kiyago behind bars, the streets of Romford can breathe a little easier.