Teen Duo Jailed for Brutal Tower Hamlets Stabbing
Two teenagers have been locked up following the savage stabbing murder of Abdul Jalloh in Tower Hamlets last summer.
Life for Shamiah McKenzie, Nine Years for Codee Godfrey
Shamiah McKenzie, 18, from Lewisham, was handed a life sentence with a minimum of 22 years for the cold-blooded murder of 23-year-old Abdul Jalloh. Her accomplice, 19-year-old Codee Godfrey of Tower Hamlets, received nine years for manslaughter.
The dramatic sentencing took place at the Old Bailey on Friday, 20 June, after their convictions on 12 June following a gruelling seven-week trial.
Victim Stabbed in Neck While Sitting in Car
Abdul was attacked at 4:15pm on 5 August 2024 while sitting unarmed and helpless behind the wheel of his car on New Union Close, E14. The teenagers viciously stabbed him in the neck during a sudden ambush.
Despite emergency crews rushing to the scene, Abdul tragically died shortly after the attack.
Police Uncover Chilling Details in Investigation
Specialist Crime North detectives pieced together a shocking sequence of events. CCTV footage showed McKenzie and Godfrey circling the Isle of Dogs on bicycles for over an hour before launching their deadly assault.
The pair then tried to cover their tracks, ditching the murder weapon and McKenzie’s bike in the Thames at Caledonian Wharf and stuffing their blood-stained clothes into bags.
Police recovered the bags, uncovering:
- £3,000 worth of cannabis
- £2,000 in cash
- A vacuum sealing machine
- Business cards linked to drug dealing operations
After dumping the evidence and changing clothes, the teenagers brazenly returned to the crime area while officers were still investigating. They finally surrendered to police on 8 August 2024 and were charged the next day.
Detective Chief Insists Justice Served
“Our thoughts are with Abdul Jalloh’s family and friends. This senseless act highlights the devastating impact of knife crime,” said Detective Chief Inspector Paul Waller.
“Thanks to our officers’ dedication and the bravery of community members who came forward with crucial evidence, these dangerous individuals have been brought to justice.”
Community Outraged Over Rising Knife Crime
The tragic case sparked outrage across East London, especially in Tower Hamlets and Lewisham, with local voices demanding tougher action against youth violence and knife crime.
If you have information about knife crime, contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
