A man has been sentenced to life in prison for the murder of young Gambian man Kunta Ceesay, who was stabbed to death in the UK last year.
Shakawan Siddiqi, 32, was jailed on Friday, 11 July at Bristol Crown Court after being found guilty of killing 25-year-old Ceesay during a street altercation in the Stapleton Road area of the city on 20 September 2024.
Ceesay, who was described by loved ones as “kind” and “bubbly,” died in hospital later that same day from stab wounds.
After a trial that lasted just over two weeks in April, Siddiqi was convicted of murder. He was remanded in custody until sentencing and has now been handed a life sentence. The judge ruled he must serve a minimum of 21 years and 74 days behind bars.
The court also heard that Siddiqi, of St Paul’s in Bristol, was being sentenced for unrelated offences a wounding incident and possession of a knife from February 2023.
While it remains unclear whether the two men knew each other well, the jury was told there may have been a disagreement over a small sum of money in the past.
Ceesay’s death sent shockwaves through the Gambian community in the UK and abroad. His family described the pain of losing a “loving boy” who brought people together and had his whole life ahead of him.
“Kunta was a kind, bubbly, and loving boy who always helped his family and friends whenever he could,” the family said in a statement following the guilty verdict in April. “He has been robbed of the chance to grow old, create his own family, and reach his dreams.”
“It’s difficult to comprehend the senseless way that Kunta lost his life. Our hearts and lives will never be the same.”
The family expressed gratitude to the police and Crown Prosecution Service and said they were comforted by the verdict.
“We are happy with the outcome. Although it won’t bring Kunta back, it has reinforced our faith in the justice system and the police. Kunta’s life meant something. We hope this serves as a reminder for people to lead with kindness and love.”
Detective Inspector Deb Hatch, who led the investigation, praised the family’s strength and said the sentence brings some closure, though it cannot undo the tragedy.
“Their support throughout the investigation and trial has been incredible. We are pleased to have provided answers and secured a significant sentence for Siddiqi,” she said.
