A man has been found guilty of murdering 25-year-old Kunta Ceesay following a fatal stabbing on Stapleton Road in Bristol last year. The conviction of 32-year-old Shawakan Siddiqi comes after a two-and-a-half-week trial at Bristol Crown Court, which concluded on Wednesday, 9 April 2025.
Siddiqi was also found guilty of possessing a bladed article in a public place. He is due to be sentenced at a later date, with the possibility of a life sentence under UK law.
A Brief Confrontation Turned Deadly
The incident unfolded on the afternoon of 20 September 2024, when Siddiqi arrived by bicycle at a Post Office on Stapleton Road. CCTV footage showed Kunta Ceesay picking up Siddiqi’s fallen bike—an act which triggered a deadly confrontation lasting less than 30 seconds.
Siddiqi stabbed Ceesay, who later died from his injuries. The court heard that Siddiqi fled the scene, disposed of the knife, and changed his clothes in an attempt to avoid detection. He was arrested by Avon and Somerset Police the next day.
Initially denying any involvement, Siddiqi later admitted to the stabbing, claiming self-defence—a claim the jury rejected.
Family Tribute: “He Lit Up Our Lives”
In a heartfelt statement, Kunta Ceesay’s family described him as “kind, bubbly, and loving,” someone who “always helped family and friends” and brought joy to those around him.
“Kunta was robbed of the chance to grow old, create his own family, and reach his dreams,” they said. “We’re grateful to the police and prosecution for bringing Siddiqi to justice. This verdict won’t bring Kunta back, but it reinforces our faith in the system.”
They ended their tribute with a call for peace: “Let’s lead with kindness and love—before it’s too late.”
Police Condemn Knife Use
Detective Inspector Deb Hatch of the Major Crime Investigation Team led the investigation, praising the victim’s family for their strength and cooperation throughout the case.
“Carrying a knife doesn’t protect you—it only makes things worse. Siddiqi’s decision to arm himself cost Kunta his life,” said DI Hatch.
A family liaison officer supported the Ceesay family throughout the investigation and trial.
Community Reacts to Another Knife Crime Tragedy
The case has sparked renewed concern over knife crime in Bristol and beyond. On social media platform X (formerly Twitter), residents expressed shock and grief.
One user wrote, “Justice for Kunta—such a senseless loss.” Another added, “How many more families need to suffer before we take real action on knife crime?”
A National Issue
According to a 2024 Home Office report, knife-related crime in the UK rose by 7% over the past year, with over 50,000 incidents reported. Bristol has seen a noticeable uptick in violent incidents, prompting authorities to launch initiatives like the Violence Reduction Partnership.
Experts point to a combination of community education, early intervention, and targeted policing as ways to reduce knife crime. However, critics say more needs to be done to tackle underlying issues like poverty, mental health, and youth disenfranchisement.
What’s Next?
Siddiqi is awaiting sentencing, with a date to be announced in the coming weeks. The Ministry of Justice guidelines suggest he could face life imprisonment, with a minimum term to be determined by the judge.
For the family of Kunta Ceesay, the trial’s outcome offers a measure of closure, but the pain of loss remains.
“We miss him every day,” said a family member outside court. “All we can do now is honour his memory and hope others learn from this tragedy.”
Anyone concerned about knife crime or seeking support can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit Fearless.org.
