Teenager accused of murdering schoolgirl Elianne Andam named for first time

A teenager accused of murdering schoolgirl Elianne Andam at a Croydon bus stop last year has been named for the first time. 

Hassan Sentamu, 18, is alleged to have stabbed 15-year-old Elianne to death in Wellesley Road, Croydon, as she made her way to school on September 27, 2023.

He had been granted anonymity during legal proceedings to date due to his age, but can be named today for the first time as he turns 18, the Met confirmed.

Sentamu last appeared at the Old Bailey in March, where he admitted being the person who inflicted the fatal knife wound to Elianne.

The teenager pleaded guilty to manslaughter but denied a murder charge. He also denied possessing a blade in a public place. 

The plea was not accepted by prosecutors and a trial is set to take place on November 25, at the same court, a spokeswoman for the Central Criminal Court said.

The Old Palace of John Whitgift school student was stabbed at around 8.30am, shortly after she and some friends had stepped off a bus. 

It is alleged that her attacker, wearing a mask and gloves, removed a large knife from his waistband and stabbed Elianne repeatedly.

As he left the scene, others attempted to administer first aid but Elianne could not be saved.

At a vigil held on October 4, 2023, near the scene of her killing, Elianne’s mum, Dorcas Andam, spoke of her daughter being “smart and charismatic” while being a person who “loved living life to the fullest”.

She said: “She brought joy to so many, including her friendships. She was an amazing, beautiful girl.

“I can’t believe we won’t be seeing her anymore. I can’t believe she won’t be there to complain about her teenage activities. We should be planning her prom after Year 11. She wanted to be a lawyer, and had so much to live for.”

Pictured top: Elianne Andam was stabbed to death in September last year (Picture: The Met)