A man has been jailed for life with a minimum term of 22 years after stabbing Omarkafi Sahal on the World’s End Estate last year.

Joshua Monroe, 20, of Tadema Road, Chelsea, was sentenced on 28 October at Isleworth Crown Court. He was convicted of murder on 7 August, after pleading guilty to having an offensive weapon in a public place.

Monroe and Omarkafi clashed on Dartrey Walk at around 9pm on 30 September 2024 and during the fight Monroe stabbed Omarkafi – then aged 28. Paramedics treated the victim at the scene before taking him to the hospital. Two weeks later, Omarkafi died of his injuries. 

Joshua Monroe was arrested on 2 October 2024 and charged with grievous bodily harm with intent. This was amended to a murder charge following Omarkafi’s death.

In a statement, Omarkafi’s family said: ‘With the sentencing today, a worldly chapter for our beloved son Omarkafi Sahal has closed. We have always believed that ultimate justice belongs to Allah alone, and we place our trust in him. 

‘This has been the most difficult year of our lives, but we are grateful for the support of our community. We continue to pray for Allah’s mercy, to forgive his shortcomings, and to admit him into Al-Firdaus, the highest paradise.’

Detective Chief Inspector Alison Foxwell, attached to Specialist Crime South, said: ‘Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of Omarkafi Sahal, who lost his life because of a senseless act of violence. We hope this sentence can provide them some comfort that justice has been served.

‘This was a fast-paced investigation, and officers worked hard going through extensive CCTV and forensic evidence to identify and arrest Monroe, which led to his conviction. Monroe denied causing Omarkafi’s death, but the evidence was undeniable, and we’re glad that he has faced justice.

‘Knife crime will never be tolerated in London and we’ll continue to tackle this issue, alongside our partners and communities. We’ll continue to do everything in our power to bear down on serious violence, diverting people away from criminality and relentlessly pursuing those who threaten the safety of others.’

The police investigation found that a group of ten men were fighting before Monroe stabbed Omarkafi. Two other men, who appeared in the dock alongside Monroe, were found guilty of “violent disorder”, and two others were acquitted.