Shakeil Thibou, 20, has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of 32-year-old mother Cher Maximen during the 2024 Notting Hill Carnival, in a case that has sent shockwaves across the capital and reignited debate over safety at public events.
Maximen, who had been attending the carnival with her three-year-old daughter, was fatally stabbed in the groin with a zombie knife amid a violent altercation on Golborne Road, North Kensington, on the family day of the August Bank Holiday weekend.
The Incident: Caught in the Chaos
According to the Metropolitan Police, the incident stemmed from a clash involving Thibou and Adjei Isaac, both known to law enforcement. Maximen was caught in the melee, reportedly trying to protect her daughter. She succumbed to her injuries six days later, sparking a murder inquiry.
Thibou, from Kensington, claimed self-defence, but was found guilty of murder, attempted grievous bodily harm, and possession of an offensive weapon following a trial at the Old Bailey.
Sentencing and Reaction
Judge Philip Katz KC described the murder as a “brutal and shocking” act and sentenced Thibou to life with a minimum of 29 years. The court heard victim impact statements from the family, including cousin Lawrence Hoo, who described Cher as "a bright light whose loss has left a gaping hole."
Public reaction has been one of grief and fury, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), where users have condemned the level of violence at the event. "A mother murdered at carnival in front of her child — how is this acceptable in 2024?" wrote one user.
Carnival Safety in the Spotlight
The Notting Hill Carnival, Europe’s largest street festival, has faced increased scrutiny over safety after eight stabbings were reported during the 2024 event. In addition to Maximen, 23-year-old Mussie Imnetu was also fatally stabbed.
The London Assembly has since demanded a comprehensive review of safety protocols, warning that the carnival could be at risk of a mass casualty event without reform. Proposals for enhanced stewarding, crowd control, and weapon detection systems are under discussion.
Knife Crime on the Rise
This tragic case highlights the growing epidemic of knife crime in the UK. The Office for National Statistics reported a 7% increase in knife-enabled crimes across England and Wales as of March 2024. The government is now moving forward with stricter zombie knife bans, increased youth services, and new legislation to tackle gang violence.
Charities like the Ben Kinsella Trust and victims’ families are calling for education reform, early intervention, and mental health support to tackle root causes. Cher Maximen’s foster sister, Tanya Jacobs, labelled the case as "a consequence of systematic failings."
Looking Ahead: Justice and Prevention
While justice has been served with Thibou’s sentencing, questions remain about the adequacy of security at public events and the government’s commitment to tackling knife crime. The Metropolitan Police and local councils have pledged renewed efforts to keep future festivals safe.
If you have information or concerns about knife crime in your area, contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111 or visit benkinsella.org.uk.
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