Three individuals have been arraigned before an Accra Circuit Court over their alleged involvement in the kidnapping and assault of a businessman, Kwadwo Agyapong Berry, stemming from a failed business investment.
The accused include two businessmen, Albert Tetteh Botchway, 34, and David Burke, 34, as well as a 29-year-old security guard, Promise Lamptey. Two additional suspects, identified as Awudu Balm and Katanga, remain at large.
The five are alleged to have conspired to kidnap Berry, detaining and assaulting him over an alleged misappropriation of over $1.6 million from their joint investment.
They are facing charges of conspiracy to commit crime (kidnapping), kidnapping, conspiracy to commit crime (assault), and assault.
When the case was called, Botchway was absent but presented a medical report to justify his absence. Burke and Lamptey, who were present in court, pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Presiding Judge Mrs. Susana Eduful granted Burke and Lamptey bail of GHC50,000 each, requiring two sureties. One surety must earn at least GHC5,000, and the other must be an immediate family member.
The case has been adjourned to February 3, 2025.
Details of the Alleged Incident
According to Chief Inspector Jonas Lawer, the lead prosecutor, the complainant, Berry, resides in Amrahia near Adenta, while the accused live in Labadi. Botchway employs Lamptey, Balm, and Katanga.
The incident allegedly began on December 14, 2024, when Berry, Botchway, and Burke interrogated one Benjamin Appiah Boateng at Laboma Beach over the alleged misappropriation of their investment funds.
Boateng was reportedly detained at Laboma Beach under Botchway’s supervision, with Berry monitoring his efforts to recover the funds.
On December 19, 2024, Burke invited Berry to Botchway’s office at Laboma Beach for a meeting. Upon arrival, Berry was led to Botchway’s office. Shortly after, Botchway left the office, and Lamptey, Balm, and Katanga entered, locking the door behind them.
The prosecution revealed that the three suspects handcuffed Berry, subjected him to severe beatings, and used an electric wire to shock him.
During the assault, the suspects accused Berry of holding $600,000 that belonged to Botchway and Burke, based on an alleged confession from Boateng. Berry was reportedly held captive in the office for over 12 hours before the Police Intelligence Department rescued him following a tip-off.
Arrests and Investigations
Botchway and Lamptey were arrested on January 2, 2025, for further investigations. During questioning, Lamptey admitted to the offense, claiming their actions were based on Boateng’s alleged confession implicating Berry.
Burke was later arrested on January 10, 2025, and granted police inquiry bail.
The prosecution emphasized that while charges have been filed against Botchway, Burke, and Lamptey, efforts are ongoing to apprehend Balm and Katanga, who remain at large.
