Two men charged with murder after man was stabbed to death in central Canterbury

Two men have been charged with murder after a man was stabbed to death in central Canterbury.

A large police cordon was put in place just after 11.30pm on Thursday after officers were called to a disturbance on the High Street, near the junction with St Margaret’s Street.

Emergency services arrived on scene and a 23-year-old man was found with injuries consistent with stab wounds. He died on the spot.

Now Kemal Ibrahim, 24, of Long Acre Close, Canterbury, and Mohammed Hgar, 31, of no fixed address, have been charged with murder and possession of a knife in a public place.

Mr Ibrahim was also charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

They are both due to appear at Margate Magistrates’ Court today.

Two other men arrested in connection with the incident have been released on bail pending further investigations.

In the aftermath of the stabbing. Searches were carried out at properties in Herne Bay High Street and near Pine Tree Avenue, Canterbury, as part of ongoing investigations.

There was a heavy police presence in the city center throughout Friday, including forensic officers working on the scene.

Much of the high street was inaccessible and police maintained cordons in St Margaret’s Street, along the High Street, in Guildhall Street and in Stour Street behind the Sainsbury’s Local store.

The gates of the Marlowe Arcade leading to St Margaret’s Street were also locked, while a private ambulance could be seen leaving at about 10.45am.

Traders described their shock when they arrived to work just a stone’s throw from the crime scene on Friday morning.

Tamas Toth, owner of the Gourmet Sausage and Burger Company, said: “I arrived at 8.15am and the police were here. About ten officers I’d say, and at least four police cars.

“A private ambulance arrived at 8.30 am.

“There is quite a large cordon, people have to go all the way to get to us.

“It’s very sad what happened.”

A shop owner who asked to remain anonymous said: “It was a bit of a shock to see all the police here when I walked in.

“We closed around 8 p.m. and haven’t heard anything.”

Canterbury District Chief Inspector Paul Stoner said at the time: “We understand that this incident and its location will have caused concern in the community and I would like to reassure people that we have a large team of officers and detectives working to resolve the matter. determine the complete situation. circumstances.

“I thank residents and businesses for their understanding and assistance as we continue our investigations in the city centre.

“We are working to reduce the impact on local businesses where possible, whilst ensuring we gather the best possible evidence as part of our investigation.”

Anyone with information who has not yet spoken to officers is urged to call police on 01303 289600 quoting reference 46/172197/24.

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete the online form on their website.