The Amasaman Circuit Court has recently made a decision to remand two individuals into police custody on allegations of involvement in a riot at Papaase, near Amasaman.
Nelson Ahiamedzi and Prince Asa, also known as Asafo, were brought before the court on a bench warrant. Ahiamedzi has pleaded not guilty to the charge of conspiracy to commit assault, cause harm, and the use of offensive weapons.
On the other hand, Prince and 15 others, who are currently evading arrest, have been charged with discharging guns or firearms in public, as well as possession of firearms and ammunition without authority. However, Prince's plea was rejected due to his inability to understand English and the unavailability of an interpreter for his native language, Nzema.
Presided over by Ms. Enid Marful-Sau, the Court has requested an interpreter for Prince on the next adjourned date, which is set for March 12, 2024.
According to Police Chief Inspector Frederick Awuah-Ansah, Papase and Chinto are neighboring communities in the Ga West Municipality of the Greater Accra Region. The court heard that the Chiefs of Papase and Chinto, Nii Papa-Asa Ill and Nana Fianko Ababio II, respectively, are related but deeply divided due to land disputes.
The prosecution detailed an incident where Nana Fianko Ababio III led a group to confront members of the Zongo Community over a Mosque land at Chinto. This land is claimed by Nii Papa Asa III. The subsequent events led to a series of violent altercations involving various individuals from both communities.
The prosecution further described how the situation escalated, resulting in severe physical harm to several individuals and the discharge of firearms in public. The court was informed that efforts are underway to apprehend other individuals involved in the incident.
The gravity of the situation was underscored by the critical condition of one of the victims, Christopher Neequaye, who was transferred to Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital for further treatment.
The accused persons have been taken into custody following their cautioned statements.
The Court's decision to remand the individuals reflects the seriousness with which such acts of violence are being addressed. It is a reminder of the legal consequences that individuals face when engaging in activities that threaten public safety and security.
As the case unfolds, it serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of peaceful conflict resolution and the detrimental impact of unresolved disputes within communities. The legal process will continue to unfold as efforts are made to bring all those involved to justice.
-source GNA | curated by Aisha Yakubu | Ghana Crimes
