In a recent development, a third accused person has appeared in court in connection with the alleged murder of a 35-year-old businesswoman at Sokoban in the Ashanti Region. This comes following the arrest of the individual over the weekend, further complicating the ongoing legal proceedings.
The two accused persons, including the deceased’s house help, Alister John, are currently on trial for the alleged murder of the businesswoman, Princess Afia Ahenkan. The second accused, James Anokye, was denied bail by the court due to concerns for his safety and the fact that the prosecution is still awaiting advice from the Attorney General’s office to commence the committal process.
The tragic incident took place on Monday, September 11, 2023, at the residence of the 35-year-old businesswoman in Apaaso near Sokoban, within the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly of the Ashanti Region. Alister John, who had been employed as the deceased’s house help, was arrested on Thursday, September 14, 2023, just days after the alleged crime and has been in police custody since.
In a recent court appearance at the Asokore Mampong District Court, a 23-year-old Collins Atuo, identified as the third accused, has also been remanded in prison custody as the legal process unfolds.
Relatives of the deceased have expressed satisfaction with the progress of the case so far. One relative conveyed their sentiments by stating, "Everything is in the hands of the prosecutor. So we are waiting to see what will happen next, but we have got assurance that they are not going to come out for now. We are happy that finally, they have arrested the three of them. We are waiting for the next step. The police CID have done their job. They have done well. We have appreciated and clapped for them."
Another relative added, "We are very happy today with the outcome. So we are hoping that everything will come to a successful end."
The case has been adjourned to February 6, 2024, as legal proceedings continue to unfold. This development underscores the importance of due process and the thorough investigation of such serious allegations to ensure that justice is served.
As the legal process continues, our thoughts remain with the family and loved ones of Princess Afia Ahenkan during this difficult time. We hope for a fair and just resolution to this tragic incident.
-By Maxwell Otoo | Ghana Crimes