A 22-year-old taxi driver, Raphael Agyiri, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison with hard labour by the Tarkwa Circuit Court for an offence involving a 15-year-old girl.
The court, presided over by Mrs Hathia Ama Manu, also directed him to pay GH¢10,000 as compensation to the young victim.
According to Chief Superintendent of Police Alex Odonkor, who led the prosecution, the incident took place on June 2, 2022, in Adjeikrom, a suburb of Bogoso in the Western Region. The young girl, who lived in the area, had gone on an errand when she encountered Agyiri near a stream.
During their meeting, Agyiri allegedly used fear and false spiritual claims to influence the girl, saying he was a spirit of the stream and warning her that something bad might happen if she didn’t listen to him. The frightened girl, who did not know him, tried to call for help but was unsuccessful.
Agyiri then took her into a nearby bush where the offence occurred. He later accompanied her home and left the area.
That evening, the girl began to feel unwell and shared what had happened with a family member. The matter was immediately reported to the police, and she was taken to the hospital for medical care. A report from the Wassa Akropong Government Hospital confirmed the offence.
Two days later, the girl saw Agyiri again near her home and informed her relative. He was promptly arrested and handed over to the police in Bogoso.
Agyiri pleaded not guilty during the trial, but the court, after hearing all the evidence, found him guilty of defilement.
This case highlights the importance of protecting children and ensuring their safety in all environments. It also serves as a reminder of the role of families, communities, and the justice system in standing up for the rights of the vulnerable.
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