A man has been sentenced to life in prison for fatally stabbing his business associate with a hunting knife following a dispute over investments in a car rental business. Ben Wazabanga, 24, was convicted of murder after killing Ayowale Aladejana outside his residence in south London. The court heard that Wazabanga, along with his partner Ronique Belfon, had faced difficulties contacting Aladejana as the business encountered financial troubles.
On the day of the incident in August 2025, Wazabanga armed himself with a hunting knife and drove from Bedford to south London with Belfon to confront Aladejana. The couple had their two young children in the car during the encounter that led to the murder. Wazabanga later pleaded guilty to carrying a bladed article and breaching a suspended sentence.
During the trial, it was revealed that Wazabanga had a history of carrying a knife for several years. The prosecution presented evidence showing Wazabanga’s escalating efforts to recover his losses from the failed business venture. Despite claiming self-defense, Wazabanga’s actions were deemed premeditated by the court.
Wazabanga and Belfon were apprehended by police near Waterloo Bridge after fleeing the scene. The defendant’s prior convictions related to knife possession were highlighted in court, underscoring the recurring nature of his violent behavior. Family members of the victim expressed their profound grief and loss, emphasizing the devastating impact of the crime on their lives.
In a letter to the judge, Wazabanga expressed remorse for his actions and stated his commitment to personal growth during his time in custody. However, the judge emphasized the grave consequences of carrying and using knives, citing the prevalence of knife-related crimes in the UK as a pressing issue that needs to be addressed.
