Man jailed for murder of man in Chelsea

A man has been jailed for life with a minimum term of 22 years after fatally stabbing a man during a fight in Chelsea in 2024.

The sentence followed an investigation by Met detectives, who pieced together crucial evidence. It comes as the Met continue their efforts of tackling knife crime and serious violence, targeting dangerous offenders who pose a risk to communities.

Joshua Monroe, 19 (23.08.2005) of Tadema Road, Chelsea was sentenced on Tuesday, 28 October at Isleworth Crown Court. He was convicted of murder on Thursday, 7 August, following a five-week trial at the same court. Monroe had previously pleaded guilty to having an offensive weapon in a public place.

The victim, 28-year-old Omarkafi Sahal, died in hospital two weeks after being stabbed by Monroe during an altercation in the World’s End Estate, SW10 at around 21:00hrs on Monday, 30 September 2024.

Paramedics treated Omarkafi at the scene before taking him to hospital. Tragically, he died of his injuries two weeks later as a result of his injuries.

In a statement, his 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.”

An extensive investigation by officers, which included trawling through hours of CCTV footage, was able to determine Monroe as a suspect.

During their investigation, detectives found CCTV evidence which showed a group of ten men fighting, before Monroe stabbed Omarkafi.

Detective Chief Inspector Alison Foxwell, 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.”

Joshua Monroe was arrested on 2 October 2024 and charged with grievous bodily harm with intent the next day. Following Omarkafi’s death on 17 October, Monroe was later charged with murder.