The Jasikan Circuit Court has sentenced two men to seven years imprisonment with hard labour each for their involvement in the defilement of a 15-year-old girl at Kadjebi in the Oti Region.
The two convicts — Joseph Boateng, also known as Afriyie or Small Pepper, 37, and Hashiru Zurukanini, alias Scare Them, 27 — were arraigned before His Honour Lambert Vinigabague Keriha on May 23, 2025, after being arrested at their hideout a day earlier by officers from the Kadjebi District Police Command.
A statement signed by Deputy Superintendent of Police John Nchor, Head of the Public Affairs Unit for the Oti Region, revealed chilling details of the incident.
According to the police, the young girl was returning home from fetching water on May 22, 2025 when she was accosted by Boateng, who promised to use spiritual powers to “charm” GH¢2,000 for her. Under this false pretense, he lured the girl to his residence at the Kadjebi Cocoa Market area.
At the location, Boateng allegedly arranged for Hashiru Zurukanini, a driver, to have sexual intercourse with the girl, deceitfully claiming that his sperm was needed for the ritual to work.
Following a report to the police, the suspects were tracked down and arrested the same day. The victim was rescued, and medical assistance was arranged as part of ongoing investigations.
Upon appearing in court, both accused were found guilty of defilement and abetment of defilement, offences under Ghana’s Criminal Offences Act.
They were each sentenced to seven years in prison with hard labour.
DSP John Nchor emphasized the Ghana Police Service’s zero tolerance for crimes against children and reiterated their commitment to ensuring justice for victims of abuse.
He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report all forms of exploitation and violence, especially involving minors.
Police have assured continued support to the victim and her family, and have commended the swift action taken by the Kadjebi District Police Command in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
