The Cape Coast Circuit Court has imposed an 80- year prison sentence on two individuals found guilty of robbing an Okada rider, which tragically resulted in the victim' s demise. The court determined that the suspects intended to use the victim' s body parts for ritualistic purposes aimed at acquiring wealth.
Each suspect received a sentence of 40 years for the robbery charge alone. They are scheduled to return to court on November 28, 2024, to face additional charges related to murder.
According to a report by Bryt FM News on July 14, 2023, the incident involved a 22- year- old named Francis Mawunya and his accomplice, Benjamin Acquah. The two men hired an Okada rider to transport them from Awutu Bontrase to Awutu Mfadwen. Upon reaching a secluded area along the route, they executed their plan to rob the rider, resulting in the fatal assault of the 18- year- old victim, Kwame Ogyam. The suspects not only stole the motorbike but also dismembered the body in a misguided attempt to utilize the remains for money rituals, with the intention of financing extravagant purchases for the upcoming 2023 Awutu Awubia Festival.
On Tuesday, the Cape Coast Circuit Court delivered its verdict, sentencing the defendants to 80 years of hard labor in prison. The court' s decision reflects the severity of the crimes committed and underscores the judicial system' s commitment to addressing such heinous acts. The suspects are expected to reappear in court next year to address the murder charges.
Following the court' s ruling, the father of the deceased, Kwame Darko, expressed a sense of relief and gratitude for the justice served. He urged other parents to be vigilant and provide proper care for their children to prevent similar tragedies from occurring.
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