Throughout the month of February, we’re telling the story of the 21 teenagers who were murdered in 2023. Our campaign, The 21, seeks to remember every victim as a young person with a family and their whole life ahead of them. We want to change the culture of kids carrying knives and becoming involved in violence. 

This is the face of Jordan Kukabu, an 18-year-old boy who was stabbed to death in Dagenham in 2023.

Name: Wazabakana Elenda Jordan Kukabu, known as Jordan

Age: 18

From: Romford

Here is a timeline of events and everything we know so far about his death: 

Friday, May 5:

Police were called to Dagenham Heathway underground station at 11.47pm after reports of men armed with machetes.

At the scene Jordan was found with stab wounds.

Despite the best efforts of emergency services, Jordan died at the scene.

A post-mortem found he died from a single stab wound to the chest.

A second man, 20, was taken to hospital with a stab injury which was not life-threatening.

Sunday, May 7: 

A post-mortem found Jordan died from a single stab wound to the chest.

Detective Chief Inspector James Shirley, from the Specialist Crime Command, said: “My thoughts remain with the young man’s family and friends.

“Dedicated detectives have been working around the clock since this tragic incident as we strive to identify and apprehend those responsible for killing Jordan.

“Our investigation is making significant progress. Local people have provided us with information, which together with forensic inquiries and analysis of CCTV is enabling us to build a picture of what happened on Friday night.”

Wednesday, May 10: 

A 15-year-old boy was charged with murder, attempted murder and possession of an offensive weapon, after he was arrested in Colchester the day before.

Friday, May 12:

Two boys, aged 16 and 17, and Michael Tommy-Mgagba, 20, of Essex, were charged with murder, attempted murder and possession of an offensive weapon.

Jordan's uncle, Michel Pongo, who is a Barking and Dagenham councillor, said: "His mother is inconsolable. If you are gang member, this message is for you: Drop your knife and quit the gangster life before it is too late.”

Newsquest London does not have information on any further developments on this case.