An Accra Circuit Court has sentenced 27-year-old porter Alex Abubakar to 15 years in prison for intentionally and unlawfully causing harm to Thierry Koffi Ametepe, a Togolese trader.
The case presided over by His Honour Isaac Addo, Abubakar faced charges of causing harm and robbery, in violation of Sections 69 and 149 of the Criminal Offences Act of 1960 (Act 29).
According to Chief Inspector Jonas Lawer, who prosecuted the case, the incident occurred on the evening of October 26, 2024.
Ametepe was seated in the Bank of Africa Recreational Garden near the Octagon building in Kinbu, Accra.
Abubakar, reportedly with the intent to rob, approached the victim from behind, lifted a pavement block, and struck him on the back of the head, rendering him unconscious.
Abubakar then stole Ametepe’s Infinix Hot 50i mobile phone, valued at GHC 1,700, along with a backpack containing his personal belongings.
A witness observed the attack and called for assistance, alerting security personnel nearby. With their help, Abubakar was apprehended, and the stolen items were recovered.
Ametepe regained consciousness shortly after, suffering from severe head injuries and bleeding profusely.
He was immediately rushed to Ridge Hospital, where he received treatment and was later admitted.
During police investigations, Abubakar admitted to the crime, claiming he acted out of hunger.
He was subsequently charged and brought before the court.
Justice Addo handed down the sentence, citing the severity of the crime and its impact on the victim.
The case underscores the court’s commitment to ensuring justice and protecting the public from violent crimes.
