By Peter Omopo
London | August 4, 2025 —
Two suspects have been charged in connection with the fatal stabbing of 26-year-old Nigerian national, Ayowale Aladejana, in New Cross, southeast London.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed on Monday that 23-year-old Ben Wazabanga of Fairfax Road, Bedford, has been charged with murder and possession of a knife. He was remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear before Croydon Magistrates’ Court on Monday.
A second suspect, 23-year-old Ronique Belfon of Morinsbury Road, Bedford, has also been charged with murder and will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court.
According to police reports, emergency services were called to a residential address on Monson Road at approximately 7:26 p.m. on Saturday, August 2, following reports of a man with stab wounds. Officers responded swiftly alongside the London Ambulance Service and London’s Air Ambulance. Despite their efforts, Ayowale was pronounced dead at the scene.
A post-mortem examination conducted on Sunday determined the preliminary cause of death to be a stab wound to the chest.
Detective Chief Inspector Lucie Card, who is leading the investigation, expressed condolences to the victim’s family and urged anyone with additional information to come forward.
“Our thoughts are with Ayowale’s family and friends at this difficult time,” she said. “We understand the concern this incident may cause in the community, and we are conducting a fast-paced and thorough investigation to uncover the full circumstances.”
Police say Ayowale’s family is being supported by specially trained officers as the investigation continues.
