The Achimota Circuit Court has recently made headlines with the remand of Michael Gaza, a 23-year-old trader, into police custody. Gaza stands accused of a rather audacious crime - proposing to a lady and then robbing her of her mobile phone, valued at GHC2000.
According to reports, Gaza allegedly coerced his victim into sending him mobile money amounting to GHC1,800 after brandishing a knife. This incident was just the beginning, as Gaza's criminal activities continued with another victim. He reportedly robbed a second lady of her mobile phone, valued at GHC2,500, as well as cash amounting to GHC2,000.
Facing two counts of robbery, Gaza has pleaded not guilty and is set to reappear before the court on March 21, 2024, presided over by Mr. Isaac Addo. The prosecution, led by Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Stephen Ahiale, revealed that the complainants, Princess Eze and Ashley Phil, are Nigerian students and a fashion designer respectively. Princess resides in Osu, while Ashley resides in Accra.
ASP Ahiale further disclosed that Gaza, who claimed to be a trader, is also Nigerian and purportedly resides in Pokuase, Accra. The prosecution detailed the events leading up to the alleged crimes, including Gaza's engagement with the victims and the subsequent robberies.
The first incident reportedly occurred on January 3, 2024, at around 11:30 pm in Osu, where Gaza approached Princess and engaged her in conversation before coercing her into joining him at his hotel in the Accra Mall area. Subsequently, Gaza and an accomplice allegedly robbed Princess and left her stranded.
A similar modus operandi was employed on February 28, 2024, at approximately 2:00 am when Gaza targeted Ashley Phil in Osu. The subsequent events mirrored the previous robbery, with Gaza making off with Ashley's valuables.
However, Gaza's luck ran out on March 2, 2024, when the second victim spotted him in the same taxi at Osu and raised an alarm. This led to Gaza's arrest, although the driver managed to escape.
Following these events, Princess positively identified Gaza as the perpetrator of the January 3 robbery at the Osu Police station. Subsequently, further investigations were conducted at the Airport Police Station.
The case of Michael Gaza serves as a sobering reminder of the prevalence of criminal activities and the importance of remaining vigilant in our interactions. As the legal proceedings unfold, it is imperative to uphold the principles of justice and ensure that the victims receive due recourse.
The outcome of this case will undoubtedly be closely monitored by the public, as it highlights the significance of addressing such criminal behavior within our communities. The Achimota Circuit Court's handling of this matter will serve as a barometer for justice and accountability in our society.
-source GNA | curated by Aisha Yakubu | Ghana Crimes
