Two murderers who visited a pub for a drink after fatally stabbing their victim at a market in Croydon, located in south London, have been sentenced to life imprisonment.

David Walcott, aged 35, and Rammon Mali, 33, were found guilty at the Old Bailey for the murder of 22-year-old Rijkaard Siafa in April of the previous year.

Judge Anuja Dhir KC described the act as a “premeditated, swift, and savage” attack carried out by three men wielding knives against a single individual in a public setting.

The third suspect remains at large.

During the court proceedings, it was revealed that the assault occurred just before 6 PM on April 12 of last year, as market vendors were concluding their day.

Following the crime, the two defendants and the still-at-large accomplice went to The Spread Eagle pub, where they ordered three pints of Guinness, as noted by prosecutor Anthony Orchard KC.

Upon being asked to take off their hats, they subsequently left the pub without finishing their drinks, the court learned.

In the meantime, bystanders tried to help Mr. Siafa, but he tragically “died in their arms,” despite the intervention of emergency services on the scene.

Walcott, who resides in Norbury, south London, along with Mali from Croydon, pleaded not guilty to involvement in the stabbing.

Both were convicted of murder, and Walcott also faced charges for possessing a blade.

On Thursday, Judge Dhir sentenced them to life in prison, setting a minimum period of 27 years.

The court highlighted that both men had extensive criminal records.

Walcott had been convicted of 15 offenses, including two counts of carrying an offensive weapon in public, common assault, and causing grievous bodily harm.

Mali had 14 previous convictions that included possession of a knife, robbery, and assault.

Hassanatu Bah, Mr. Siafa’s mother, delivered a heartfelt statement in court about her “kind” and “gentle” son.

She remarked: “Rijkaard had so much potential. His aspirations were vast, and his enthusiasm for life was unmatched. He was fueled by hope and ambition, with a future brimming with opportunities—dreams that have been cruelly snatched away from him.”

Ms. Bah described her son as a devoted Muslim who was “deeply invested in assisting others and envisioned accomplishing much more for his communities.”

Detectives are offering a reward of up to £10,000 for any information that leads to the arrest and prosecution of Jordan Vincent, who is still wanted for Mr. Siafa’s murder.

Detective Chief Inspector Samantha Townsend from Scotland Yard stated: “These defendants collaborated as a unit.

“Jordan Vincent is still sought for the murder of Rijkaard Siafa, and my team is dedicated to ensuring that all those involved face justice.

“I urge the public to reflect deeply and provide us with any information regarding the whereabouts of Jordan Vincent.”