The suspects leaving the courtroom in Kumasi
A Kumasi High Court has remanded 14 persons in prison custody for their alleged involvement in the violent aftermath of the general election, at Damongo in the Savannah Region.
The suspects, who were among 16 people arraigned before the court, have been accused of burning down an office of the Electoral Commission (EC) at Damongo.
The incident purportedly occurred on December 8, 2024 during the collation of ballots.
Two of the suspects, who were deemed minors by the court, were granted bail to reappear on December 19, 2024.
The suspects face nine charges, including unlawful damage, assault, causing harm, and obstructing electoral officers in the discharge of their duties.
Although the suspects were initially scheduled to appear before a court in Damongo, the case was transferred to Kumasi in the Ashanti Region for security reasons.
At their appearance before the Kumasi High Court yesterday, the presiding judge, Justice Hannah Taylor, ruled that the two minors could not be sent to prison, and placed them in the care of Alhaji Imoro Seidu.
Before the ruling, the State Attorney requested a deferment of the suspects’ plea, arguing that more time was needed to complete investigations before commencing prosecution.
The defence counsel opposed the State Attorney’s request, arguing that the 16 suspects, including the minors, should be granted bail.
After considering both arguments, the court deferred the pleas of the 14 adult suspects and remanded them into prison custody, while entrusting the minors to Alhaji Seidu.
The case has been adjourned to December 19, 2024, when the suspects are expected to reappear before the court for further hearing.
FROM I.F. Joe Awuah Jnr., Kumasi