Evil teen jailed for life after knife murder over teddy bear row
Tragic Killing Outside Croydon Shopping Centre
Hassan Sentamu, 18, has been locked up for life after fatally stabbing 15-year-old Elianne Andam outside the Whitgift Centre in New Addington, Croydon. The shocking murder unfolded on September 27, 2023, following a bitter argument sparked by a teddy bear dispute.
Life Term with Minimum 23 Years
Despite initially pleading guilty to manslaughter, Sentamu was found guilty of murder and possession of a blade after the jury rejected claims that his autism impaired his self-control. On Thursday, Mrs Justice Cheema-Grubb condemned the “evil” attack and sentenced Sentamu to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 23 years.
The judge mourned Elianne as a “hard-working girl” with a “radiant smile” and told Sentamu: “Elianne was 15 when you murdered her. She will forever remain 15, never realising the potential of her life.” She slammed Sentamu’s “short temper” and decision to carry a knife as driving factors behind the brutal attack.
Family Plead for Justice
Elianne’s family delivered heartbreaking statements in court. Her mother, Dorcas Andam, described her daughter as vibrant, creative and deeply loving, adding that her death left “a deafening silence” in their lives. Her father, Michael Andam, spoke of his torment at being unable to protect his little girl.
CCTV Shows Merciless Stabbing
The court heard Sentamu had a violent past, known for carrying weapons and aggressive behaviour. CCTV footage revealed the grim moment Sentamu repeatedly stabbed Elianne as she lay begging for mercy. The attack reportedly erupted from a charged dispute involving Sentamu’s ex-girlfriend and a teddy bear.
Defence lawyer Pavlos Panayi KC acknowledged Sentamu’s troubled background but stressed it did not excuse the “horrific crime.” As sentencing was handed down, public outrage erupted in the court gallery, rejecting Sentamu’s earlier apology. The defendant sat silently, wiping away tears.
