In a recent development, the Circuit Court in Accra has granted bail to a 20-year-old air-condition apprentice, Arthur Habakkuk, who is facing charges of unlawful entry and robbery. The incident, involving two foreign students residing in the Greater Accra Region, has drawn significant attention due to the severity of the allegations.
The presiding judge, Her Honour Susana Eduful, granted bail to the accused in the sum of GH¢100,000. The conditions for bail include execution by the accused’s parents and a civil servant guarantor earning a minimum monthly salary of GH¢2,000. Arthur Habakkuk has pleaded not guilty to two charges: unlawful entry to commit a crime and robbery. These charges are in violation of Sections 152 and 149 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29). Chief Inspector Abigail Offeabea is leading the prosecution in this case.
Details of the Allegations
The charges stem from an incident that allegedly occurred on December 16, 2025, at Alajo in the Greater Accra Region. According to the prosecution, Arthur Habakkuk unlawfully entered the room of two foreign nationals, who are students residing at a hostel in Alajo, with the intent to commit robbery.
The court was informed that during the alleged robbery, Habakkuk used a knife to threaten the victims and forcibly took two mobile phones: a Samsung A16 valued at GH¢3,000 and an Infinix Hot 401 valued at GH¢2,800. The prosecution further alleged that Habakkuk restrained the complainants by tying them with sponges and rags, sealing their mouths with black solution tape, and covering their faces with towels and veils. Disturbingly, it was also alleged that he touched their private parts during the ordeal.
Circumstances of Arrest
According to the prosecution's account, the incident occurred at approximately 1:30 p.m. on the said date. The accused allegedly knocked on the door of the complainants' hostel room and, upon gaining entry, pushed them back inside before locking the door. It was at this point that he reportedly brandished a kitchen knife and carried out the alleged acts.
A neighbor, upon hearing the victims' screams, raised an alarm and intervened. This led to the apprehension of Arthur Habakkuk, who was subsequently handed over to officers at the Kotobabi Police Station. Following his arrest, police investigations were conducted, during which Habakkuk reportedly admitted to the crimes in his caution statement.
The stolen mobile phones were recovered from his backpack along with other items, including a kitchen knife, a pair of scissors, a key, solution tape, and a duster.
Legal Proceedings
After completing their investigations, law enforcement charged Arthur Habakkuk with unlawful entry and robbery. He was subsequently arraigned before the Circuit Court in Accra. The case has been adjourned to a later date for further proceedings as the trial continues.
Conclusion
The allegations against Arthur Habakkuk are serious and have raised concerns about safety within residential areas in Accra. The decision to grant bail underscores the principle of presumption of innocence until proven guilty. As the trial progresses, it is expected that justice will be served based on the evidence presented before the court. The case remains under close scrutiny as stakeholders await its resolution.
-By Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
