In a recent case that has sparked outrage, a former teacher has been sentenced to seven years imprisonment in hard labour for defiling and impregnating his 15-year-old student. The Tarkwa circuit court found 24-year-old Kingsley Acquah guilty of the offence, despite his initial plea of not guilty.
According to the prosecution, led by Superintendent of Police Juliana Essel-Dadzie, the victim's mother, who is a seamstress, brought the case to light. Acquah had been teaching the victim at a private school in the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality, where they both resided.
The disturbing events unfolded when the victim, in her final year of Junior High school, was required to lodge at the school in preparation for her Basic Education Certificate Examination. Taking advantage of the situation, Acquah lured the victim into his room and engaged in sexual intercourse with her. This deplorable behavior was repeated, and at one point, the victim began to bleed, prompting Acquah to dismiss her from his room.
After completing her exams and returning home, the victim fell ill without realizing she was pregnant. It wasn't until she was admitted to a Senior High School in February 2023 that her pregnancy was discovered by a senior house mistress, leading to her expulsion from the school. Upon returning home, she bravely disclosed the traumatic events to her mother, who promptly reported the matter to the police.
The subsequent medical examination confirmed the pregnancy, and legal action was taken against Acquah. This distressing case serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of students and the responsibility of educators to ensure their safety and well-being.
It is imperative that educational institutions and authorities remain vigilant in safeguarding the welfare of students, and that perpetrators of such egregious acts are held accountable for their actions. The sentencing of Kingsley Acquah sends a clear message that such abhorrent behavior will not be tolerated within our society.
As we reflect on this distressing case, let us reiterate our commitment to protecting the rights of young individuals and fostering a safe and nurturing environment for all students.
-source GNA | curated by Aisha Yakubu | Ghana Crimes
