In a significant ruling that underscores the importance of justice and the protection of vulnerable individuals, the Bekwai Circuit Court has sentenced a 38-year-old farmer, David Donkor, to 10 years of imprisonment with hard labour. The conviction comes after Donkor was found guilty of defiling a 13-year-old girl in Afoako, a community near Bekwai in the Ashanti Region.
The judgment was delivered on Friday, July 31, 2026, by His Honour Isaac Appiatu, who presided over the case. Donkor was charged with one count of defilement, an offence contrary to Section 101 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29). The case highlights the judiciary’s commitment to addressing crimes against minors and ensuring justice is served.
The Incident and Arrest
According to the prosecution, which was led by the Bekwai Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU), the crime occurred in December 2024. The victim’s mother, aged 27, reported the incident to the police, setting in motion a series of investigations.
Following the report, Donkor fled the area in an attempt to evade arrest. However, law enforcement agencies remained resolute in their pursuit. After extensive investigations, police traced him to Ntotroso in the Ahafo Region. On January 8, 2026, officers from the Ntotroso Police, acting on a request from their counterparts in Bekwai, successfully apprehended Donkor. He was subsequently transferred back to Bekwai to assist with further investigations and face justice.
The Trial and Conviction
During the trial, the prosecution presented substantial evidence, including a medical report endorsed by a certified medical doctor. This report played a pivotal role in corroborating the victim’s account of the incident.
After a thorough examination of the evidence presented, the court found Donkor guilty of the charges brought against him. In delivering his sentence, His Honour Isaac Appiatu emphasized the gravity of the crime and the need for a deterrent punishment. Consequently, Donkor was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment with hard labour.
A Step Forward for Justice
This ruling serves as a reminder of Ghana’s legal framework aimed at protecting children from abuse and exploitation. It also highlights the critical role of law enforcement agencies like DOVVSU in investigating and prosecuting cases of domestic violence and sexual offences.
The courage demonstrated by the victim’s mother in reporting the incident is commendable. Her actions underscore the importance of community involvement in safeguarding children and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.
Conclusion
The Bekwai Circuit Court’s decision sends a strong message about society’s intolerance for crimes against vulnerable individuals, particularly children. While no sentence can undo the harm caused to the victim, this ruling provides a measure of justice and serves as a deterrent to others who may contemplate similar acts.
As a society, it is imperative that we continue to advocate for stronger protections for children and support systems that enable victims and their families to come forward without fear or stigma. Only through collective effort can we create a safer environment for all.
-By Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
