The Metropolitan Police in the United Kingdom has confirmed the arrest and arraignment of two individuals in connection with the fatal stabbing of 26-year-old Nigerian national, Ayowale Aladejana, at a residence in New Cross, southeast London.
According to a statement released by the police, Ben Wazabanga, 23, of Fairfax Road, Bedford, has been charged with murder and possession of a knife, while Ronique Belfon, also 23, of Morinsbury Road, Bedford, has been charged with murder.
Both suspects appeared in magistrates’ court on Monday, August 4, and have been remanded in custody pending further legal proceedings.
A Violent Attack in a Residential Apartment
Ayowale was reportedly found with multiple stab wounds in an apartment on Monson Road, New Cross, at approximately 7:26 p.m. on Saturday, August 2. Emergency services, including the London Ambulance Service and London’s Air Ambulance, responded swiftly, but despite efforts to revive him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
A post-mortem conducted on Sunday confirmed the preliminary cause of death as a stab wound to the chest.
Police: Investigation Is Ongoing
Detective Chief Inspector Lucie Card, who is leading the investigation, expressed condolences to the victim’s family and assured the public of a thorough and fast-paced investigation.
“Our thoughts are with Ayowale’s family and friends at this difficult time,” she said. “We understand this incident is deeply concerning, and we encourage anyone with relevant information who hasn’t come forward to do so.”
The police have called on members of the public who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the area to assist with the ongoing inquiry.
Family in Mourning
Aladejana’s family is reportedly being supported by specially trained officers, as they come to terms with the loss of their son and brother under tragic circumstances. Friends and loved ones have since begun paying tribute on social media, describing Ayowale as “gentle,” “ambitious,” and “full of promise.”
A Rising Concern for Community Safety
This incident adds to a growing concern over violent crime in some parts of London, especially involving young adults. Community leaders are once again calling for proactive policing, stricter knife crime laws, and targeted youth engagement programs to address the root causes of such violence.
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