We have been following the case of Newell Gavu, the 37-year-old CCTV Installer who has been accused of destroying statues of the Big Six at the Airport roundabout in Accra on August 31, 2024. It has been reported that the court has ordered a brain scan to establish Gavu’s mental status following his appearance before the court.
The court has informed that the brain scan report would take some time, and as a result, the matter has been adjourned to October 4, 2024. It has been brought to our attention that the relations of Gavu have mobilised funds to enable him to undergo the brain scan, highlighting the significance of this procedure in the legal process.
It is important to note that Gavu has not entered a plea yet, although he has been charged with causing damage. Details of the matter reveal that Gavu resides in Oyarifa, Accra, and was reportedly seen by a complainant breaking the Big Six statues with a hammer while on his way to work at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA).
During interrogation, Gavu initially gave inconsistent statements but later claimed that a spirit in his dream directed him to destroy the statues. Further investigations by the police revealed that Gavu, who lived with his parents, had been exhibiting abnormal behavior. It was also discovered that he had previously received treatment at Pantang Psychiatric Hospital and was placed on medication, but had stopped taking his medication, burned all his hospital documents, discarded his medicines and left home.
The police have commended the public and the Airport Security for their vigilance, which ultimately led to the arrest of Gavu. The court has emphasized the need for a comprehensive report on Gavu’s mental status, indicating the significance of understanding his mental state in relation to the alleged crime.
As we await further developments in this case, it is important to recognize the complexities surrounding mental health and its intersection with the legal system. We will continue to monitor this case and provide updates as it progresses.
-By Aisha Yakubu | GhanaCrimes
