A man described as “caring and compassionate” was tragically lured to his death by a childhood friend in a fatal revenge attack. Julian Ebanks, 21, was stabbed to death on Kender Street on August 4, 2023, by an attacker who remains on the run.

On Friday, Ismaiel Kallon, also 21, was sentenced to life in prison for Julian’s murder. Kallon, whom Julian regarded as a close friend, betrayed his trust and orchestrated the ambush that led to Julian’s death.

Revenge Plot

The court heard that the attack was part of a revenge plot stemming from the stabbing of a mutual friend in Surrey Quays months earlier. Kallon and others suspected Julian of being involved in that incident.

Julian had not lived in London for several years due to safety concerns but returned frequently to visit family. Before his death, he confided in Kallon that he would be back in the city to celebrate his brother’s birthday.

Kallon relayed this information to individuals seeking revenge and persuaded Julian to meet him on Kender Street. When Julian arrived, he was ambushed and stabbed three times by another man. Despite his injuries, Julian succumbed to his wounds on the street.

Family Devastation

In a statement read during the sentencing hearing, Julian’s mother described the devastating impact of his loss:
“Where Julian is there is always a sense of happiness and laughter. He was always very caring and compassionate,” she said.
She recounted how he would mediate conflicts between his siblings with such wisdom that they would reconcile.
“When he was at home, our family time was such a joy, and he was always smiling.

Reflecting on the night of his death, she said: “I often wonder if I had stopped Julian from leaving the home that night, my son would still be alive today. These thoughts haunt me at night.”

The Betrayal

Kallon, who handed himself in to police after the attack, claimed he was an “innocent dupe” in the killing. However, the jury found him guilty of murder, concluding he knowingly lured Julian into the ambush.

Judge Nicholas Heathcote Williams told Kallon: “You exploited Julian’s trust in you as a supposed friend, deceived him, and lured him into an ambush.” While the judge accepted that Kallon may not have intended for Julian to be killed, he condemned him for doing nothing to help after the attack.

Sentencing and Manhunt

Kallon was sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum term of 22 years, minus time served on remand.

The individual suspected of carrying out the stabbing has fled the country and remains at large. Police continue to appeal for information on his whereabouts.

A Tragic Loss

Julian’s death has left his family and community devastated. Described by loved ones as a beacon of joy and kindness, his life was tragically cut short by the betrayal of someone he considered a trusted friend.

Anyone with information about the suspect still at large is urged to contact the Metropolitan Police or Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.