In a recent development, two men standing trial for the alleged murder of 25-year-old Georgina Asor Botchwey, a prospective nurse, have vehemently denied the charges brought against them. Christopher Ekow Clark Quansah, also known as Nana Clark, and Michael Darko appeared before the Cape Coast High Court presided over by Justice John Mark Nuku Alifo, where they pleaded not guilty to the offences of conspiracy to commit murder and murder. Additionally, they denied three charges of unlawfully possessing explosives, firearms, and ammunition.
The accused individuals have refuted the facts presented by the Prosecution at the District Court, which suggested their involvement in ritual killing during investigations. As a result of their plea, the court removed them from police custody and remanded them into prison custody.
Despite their denial, counsel for the accused sought bail, emphasizing the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. They argued that the continuous incarceration of Quansah and Darko infringed upon their rights and posed a significant burden on their respective families, as they were the breadwinners. Additionally, the defense highlighted the accused persons' lack of flight risk, possession of credible sureties, permanent places of abode, cooperation with the police, and inability to interfere with further investigations.
However, the Assistant State Attorney, led by the Principal State Attorney for the prosecution, opposed the bail, citing concerns about the safety of releasing the accused individuals into society. They stressed that the severity of the alleged first-degree offences warranted refusal of bail.
Ultimately, the court declined the request for bail and directed the prosecution to file all disclosures and witness statements to be served on the lawyers of the accused within two weeks before the next adjourned date, which has been set for Thursday, March 14.
The case revolves around the tragic events involving Georgina Asor Botchwey, who had traveled to Cape Coast for an interview at the Ankaful Psychiatric Nursing School. The Prosecution alleges that Darko offered to pick her up after her interview and subsequently arranged for her to join Quansah at Pedu Junction in Cape Coast. It is further alleged that Quansah then drove them to Akwaakrom near Mankessim, where they reportedly carried out the heinous act.
The investigation unfolded following a complaint lodged by the deceased's brother, leading to the arrest of Darko and subsequent findings that led to the arrest of Quansah.
As this case continues to unfold, it underscores the importance of due process and thorough investigation to ensure justice is served. The upcoming proceedings will shed further light on this tragic incident and provide an opportunity for all relevant evidence to be presented before the court.
We will continue to monitor this case as it develops and provide updates as new information becomes available.
-source GNA |curated by Mabel Darkoo | Ghana Crimes
