Couple Drove Children to Fatal Confrontation Over Business Debt
A couple allegedly murdered a business associate after driving more than 50 miles with two small children in their car for a violent confrontation over unpaid debts, Southwark Crown Court has heard. Ben Wazabanga, 24, and Ronique Belfon, 23, are accused of killing 26-year-old Ayowale Aladejana outside his home in Monson Road, New Cross, south-east London.
The fatal stabbing stemmed from a "business arrangement gone sour" involving a car rental scheme, according to prosecutors. Mr Aladejana had established the venture, with Wazabanga and Belfon participating as investors who believed he owed them significant sums of money prior to his death.
Armed Journey with Toddlers in Tow
On the evening of August 2, 2025, the couple traveled from their home in Bedford to south London with children aged one and two in the back of their vehicle. Wazabanga was allegedly armed with a hunting knife during the journey, while Belfon is accused of driving and knowing he carried the weapon.
Prosecutor James Brown KC stated: "The person who stabbed him was the first defendant, Mr Wazabanga. He stabbed him... in the chest, piercing his heart. Mr Wazabanga used a knife which he had brought to the scene."
Business Dispute Turns Deadly
The court heard details of the failed car rental business called A2M2, where partners provided either vehicles or investment capital. Wazabanga had contributed money for car repairs, while Belfon purchased two Mercedes on finance to be used in the scheme.
Mr Aladejana was responsible for paying off the finance arrangements using rental income, but he allegedly missed payments, sending Belfon into debt and damaging her credit rating. Around April 2025, he reportedly transferred all rental vehicles to another company run by an individual known as "Moey."
Confrontation and Aftermath
Prosecutors said Belfon parked across the road from Mr Aladejana's home "to be able to see" the confrontation that ensued. After the stabbing, she allegedly drove Wazabanga away from the scene, pausing briefly to allow him to retrieve his mobile phone.
Mr Brown explained: "Both the defendants, the Crown suggests, had a real axe to grind against Mr Aladejana – they believed he owed them money in a business arrangement gone sour." The couple are not accused of planning to kill Mr Aladejana but rather intended to "have it out with him about the grievance they had against him."
Financial Strain and Messages
Prior to his death, Mr Aladejana told his girlfriend Katelyn Edwards he was "in too much debt" and owed money to various people, including the defendants. In April 2025, Belfon messaged both Mr Aladejana and Ms Edwards about recovering her cars, stating: "it's all causing unnecessary stress" and that the "whole scheme has been a mess."
Both defendants appeared in court on Tuesday, with Wazabanga wearing a blue sweatshirt and joggers and Belfon in a black and white dress. They have pleaded not guilty to murder charges, and the trial continues as the court examines the tragic consequences of this business dispute turned violent.
