Two teens found guilty after 19-year-old footballer died from stab wound to the chest

Two teenagers have been convicted of manslaughter following the death of a 19-year-old in Southwark last year.

Francois Kablan, from Bermondsey, died last May from a fatal stab wound to the chest.

A 17-year-old boy, from Eltham and a now 16-year-old, from Lambeth, were found guilty of manslaughter today at Isleworth Crown Court.

One of the accused had been aged 15 at the time of the killing.

Mr Kablan, who played as a reserve for Harlow Town FC, was fatally stabbed on Wednesday May 13, 2020, on Great Dover Street.

Police were called at around 5.30pm to reports of a number of males fighting near the location.

Both London Ambulance Service and London’s Air Ambulance attended the scene where Mr Kablan was pronounced dead.

The two defendants were arrested near to the scene, three other individuals were arrested in connection with the incident but were later released no further action.

A post mortem held two days later gave cause of death as a stab wound to the chest.

An investigation was launched by detectives from the Homicide and Specialist Crime Command, led by Detective Chief Inspector Kate Kieran.

The court heard how Francois and his friend became involved in an altercation with the two defendants which quickly escalated.

DCI Kieran said: “My thoughts go out today to the family and friends of Francois, whose life was needlessly lost far too soon.

“Whatever instigated this dispute between the two groups quickly led to a situation in which the two defendants – who were both armed with knives – were not prepared to back down.

“Rather they decided to engage, leading to the most tragic of outcomes.

“It is clear to me that their intention was to cause at least serious harm to Francois, proving them to be dangerous offenders who have no place on our streets.”

If there are any young people who have information about violence or knife crime, they can visit fearless.org where they can pass on information anonymously.

Fearless is part of the Crimestoppers charity, and is also independent of the police.

If you need help or information to support someone you suspect is involved in knife crime, or you want assistance yourself, then you can visit www.knifefree.co.uk or LondonNeedsYouAlive