A man has been sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 24 years for fatally stabbing his business associate with a hunting knife. The incident occurred outside the victim’s residence in Monson Road, New Cross, south London. Ben Wazabanga, 24, was found guilty of murder by a jury in June.
The court learned that the victim, Ayowale Aladejana, 26, and Wazabanga had a business falling out related to investments in a car rental venture. Prior to the tragic event, communication between Wazabanga, his partner Ronique Belfon, and Mr. Aladejana had become strained as the business faced financial difficulties.
On August 2, 2025, armed with a hunting knife, Wazabanga and Ms. Belfon traveled from Bedford to south London with two small children in the car in search of Mr. Aladejana. The murder took place near their destination, with the children present in the vehicle during the incident.
Wazabanga had admitted to possessing a bladed article and breaching a suspended sentence. Concurrently, he received sentences of 18 months and 12 months for these offenses. During the sentencing at the Old Bailey, Wazabanga, appearing via video-link from prison, maintained a composed demeanor.
Although Ms. Belfon was acquitted of murder, evidence presented during the trial revealed the violent nature of the confrontation. Wazabanga fatally stabbed Mr. Aladejana, who was described as a kind-hearted individual by his mother, Lola Paul. The victim’s partner, Katelyn Edwards, expressed the profound impact the incident had on her mental well-being.
In a letter read by his representative, Wazabanga expressed remorse and a desire for personal growth during his time in custody. Judge Martyn Levett emphasized the seriousness of routinely carrying a knife, highlighting the detrimental effects of knife-related crimes in the UK streets.