In a recent ruling, the Tema Circuit Court ‘B’ has handed down a three-year prison sentence in hard labour to Abdulai Sanusi, a 27-year-old scrap dealer and herbal medicine peddler. Sanusi, a Nigerien national, pleaded guilty to the charge of causing harm to a security guard, Mr Vincent Akpotaka, by stabbing him with a pair of scissors.
The incident occurred at Sentuo Oil Refinery in the Tema Industrial Area, where Mr Akpotaka worked as a security guard. It was reported that in January 2024, Mr Akpotaka purchased some herbal medicine from Sanusi on credit, amounting to Gh₵ 50.00, with a promise to pay later. On February 12, 2024, Sanusi visited Mr Akpotaka at his place of residence within the refinery premises to demand payment. However, Mr Akpotaka explained that he did not have cash on him as his money was in his mobile money wallet, and the mobile money agents in the area had already closed for the day.
Following a verbal exchange, Sanusi resorted to violence, stabbing Mr Akpotaka under his left rib and back with the concealed pair of scissors. The victim sustained deep-cut wounds and was subsequently hospitalized at the Tema General Hospital, where he underwent surgery for internal bleeding and perforation of the stomach lining.
Sanusi attempted to flee the scene but was apprehended by witnesses and handed over to the Lube Oil Police Station. As a result of the attack, Mr Akpotaka incurred medical expenses and was detained at the hospital's social welfare department due to his inability to settle the bills. However, he has since been discharged after kind-hearted individuals contributed towards covering his medical expenses.
The severity of Sanusi's actions led to the court's decision to impose a three-year prison sentence in hard labour. The case serves as a reminder of the consequences of resorting to violence in disputes, and highlights the importance of seeking peaceful resolutions to conflicts.
It is imperative for individuals to handle disagreements in a civil manner and refrain from engaging in acts of aggression. The well-being and safety of others should always be paramount, and resorting to violence only leads to detrimental outcomes for all parties involved.
As we reflect on this unfortunate incident, let us reaffirm our commitment to resolving conflicts through peaceful means and upholding respect for one another in our interactions. May this serve as a lesson for us all to prioritize empathy and understanding in our dealings with others
-source GNA | curated by Aisha Yakubu | Ghana Crime
