A murder shocked the community of Croydon when 15-year-old Elianne Andam was fatally stabbed in an unprovoked attack on 27 September 2023. Today, her killer, 18-year-old Hassan Sentamu, was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 23 years at the Old Bailey.
Sentamu, from Rowdown Crescent, New Addington, appeared in court on Thursday, 13 March, following his murder conviction on 16 January. The sentencing marks the end of a harrowing journey for Elianne’s family, who have endured unimaginable loss since that tragic day.
The attack occurred in broad daylight on Wellesley Road, Croydon. Elianne was standing up for a friend when Sentamu chased her and stabbed her multiple times, including a fatal wound to her neck. He fled the scene, discarding the knife, but was arrested within 90 minutes after stepping off a bus near his home.
Detectives worked tirelessly to secure evidence, analysing 45 hours of CCTV footage to trace Sentamu’s movements. This meticulous effort led to the recovery of the murder weapon, forensically linked to him, ensuring a robust case presented by the Crown Prosecution Service.
During sentencing, Elianne’s parents shared heartbreaking victim impact statements. Her mother said, “Elianne was my world, my answered prayer. She was vibrant, creative, and loved deeply. Now, there’s only silence—a hollow, painful silence.” Her father added, “She was a bright light, a daughter, a sister. Her absence is a wound that will never heal.”
Detective Chief Inspector Becky Woodsford, who led the investigation, praised the family’s dignity. “This is the best outcome they could hope for, but nothing eases their pain. Elianne was simply supporting her friend when Sentamu’s rage ended her life. I’m relieved he’ll be behind bars for a significant time.”
The Croydon murder stemmed from a petty dispute. Sentamu had met Elianne’s friend to exchange items after a breakup but refused to return her belongings. When Elianne intervened, grabbing a bag of returned items, Sentamu snapped, pulling a knife from his waistband. Witnesses watched in horror as he attacked, while passers-by tried to save her until emergency services arrived.
Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain, overseeing policing in Croydon, reflected on the community’s response. “Elianne’s death united Croydon in grief and support. The mural unveiled last year stands as a tribute to her memory. Even seasoned officers were shaken, but their swift actions—from first aid to Sentamu’s arrest—were commendable.”
Sentamu remained calm after the killing, even giving a false name, “John,” during his arrest. A search of his home uncovered a matching knife set with one missing—the weapon used in the Croydon murder. Despite pleading guilty to manslaughter citing autism, the court rejected this defence, convicting him of murder.
The community continues to mourn Elianne, remembered as a kind, talented girl with a bright future. A candlelit vigil drew hundreds, and messages left at the scene spoke of her warmth.
This case highlights the devastating impact of knife crime.
Knife crime remains a pressing issue in the UK, with cases like this Croydon murder underscoring the need for action. Elianne’s death was senseless, sparked by a trivial disagreement that escalated fatally. Her story resonates beyond Croydon, prompting calls for better youth support and prevention measures.
