The dad of a man who was murdered in broad daylight has said there are “no winners” as his son’s killer was sentenced to life in prison. 

Keelen Wong, 22, was stabbed to death on Coldharbour Lane, Brixton, on October 3 last year in an alleged revenge attack. 

A court heard Kyiza Sandiford carried out the attack in response to another murder. 

On Friday (November 22) the 24-year-old was jailed for life with a minimum term of 23 years. 

Keelen’s father Jemaine Wong said: “I’m grateful for the sentence that has been served. All who knew and loved Keelen are planning to have his memory last long beyond Sandiford’s time. 

“However, there are no joy or winners in this scenario, only levels of loss. Community violence is a sad reality that I will have to navigate with the grace of God moving forward. 

“No amount of time will account for the life of my son Keelen Wong, but my hope is that the sentence will allow the defendant time to appreciate the value of life.” 

Keelen’s mother Nadine Searchwell said: “To the killer and the two individuals who stood with him they only took his flesh, his spirit is still here. He’s God’s child and God doesn’t sleep. 
 
“I’m just blessed and grateful to be his Mum and so thankful I got 22 years with my baby. My one son, I love you, know I got you. Keelen Wong’s legacy lives.” 

Keelen Morris WongKeelen Morris Wong (Image: Met Police) Police were called to reports of a stabbing on Coldharbour Lane at 4.44pm on October 3 last year. 

Keelen was found with a knife injury and died at the scene. 

Detective Inspector Kevin Martin said: " My team pieced together the various movements of Sandiford on the day of the murder, including linking a blood trail at the scene to Sandiford’s self-admission to hospital.” 

Kyiza SandifordKyiza Sandiford (Image: Met Police) Two 16-year-old boys were also charged with Keelen’s murder but they were both found not guilty. 

One of them was found guilty of possession of an offensive weapon and was given a Youth Supervision Order. 

DI Martin said: “I have spoken with Keelen’s family and, although the trial has not provided them with the full result that they had wished for, I have expressed my sincere hope that they can obtain some degree of comfort from the sentence handed down.  

“This result shows that the Met remains deeply committed to pursuing and prosecuting those who are willing to commit acts of violence on the streets of London.”