Two Charged After 26-Year-Old Nigerian Fatally Stabbed in London Flat

A man and a woman have been charged with murder following the tragic fatal stabbing of 26-year-old Nigerian national, Ayowale Aladejana, in New Cross, southeast London. The Metropolitan Police say officers were called to a residential address on Monson Road just after 7:25PM on Saturday, August 2, where Mr. Aladejana was found with critical stab injuries. Despite rapid intervention by emergency crews—including the London Ambulance Service and London’s Air Ambulance—he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The accused are Ben Wazabanga, 23, of Fairfax Road, Bedford, and Ronique Belfon, 23, of Morinsbury Road, Bedford. Mr. Wazabanga faces charges of murder and possession of a knife, while Ms. Belfon has also been charged with murder. Both were remanded in custody and are expected to appear at Croydon and Westminster Magistrates’ Courts, respectively, on Monday, August 4.

A post-mortem examination on Sunday cited a stab wound to the chest as the preliminary cause of death. Specially trained officers are now supporting Ayowale’s family.

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Leading the investigation, Detective Chief Inspector Lucie Card extended condolences to the victim’s loved ones and reassured the local community:

“Our thoughts are with Ayowale’s family and friends at this difficult time. I understand this incident will be concerning, and we are carrying out a fast-paced and thorough investigation to establish the circumstances. I would encourage anyone who has not yet spoken to us to come forward.”

Authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to contact investigators as they continue their inquiries into the events leading up to the fatal attack.