Paragraph 1: The Crime and Initial Court Proceedings
A 36-year-old former driver, Emmanuel Klutse, found himself standing before an Accra Circuit Court, accused of unlawfully entering his former boss’s vehicle and stealing GHC50,000 in cash. The prosecution presented CCTV footage that allegedly captured Klutse opening the complainant’s car and taking the money. Despite the seemingly damning evidence, Klutse pleaded not guilty to the charges of unlawful entry and stealing. The court, presided over by Mr. Isaac Addo, granted Klutse bail in the amount of GHC50,000, requiring two sureties who are residents within the court’s jurisdiction. The prosecution was instructed to comply with disclosure rules, and the case was adjourned to February 12, 2025.
Paragraph 2: The Complainant’s Account and Discovery of the Theft
The complainant, Theress Rusell Panford, a Procurement Officer at Kasapreko Company Limited, provided his account of the events. He had withdrawn GHC60,000 from his bank and placed GHC50,000 in his car, which was parked at the company’s Spintex car park. Upon returning to his car at around 4:30 pm, he discovered the money missing. Mr. Panford immediately sought assistance from the company’s security department to review CCTV footage, hoping to shed light on the theft.
Paragraph 3: CCTV Footage and Identification of the Accused
The CCTV footage, according to the prosecution, revealed Klutse’s involvement in the theft. The recordings showed Klutse, driving a Toyota Highlander, parking near the complainant’s vehicle in the company car park. Furthermore, the footage captured Klutse exiting his car, surveying the surroundings, opening the complainant’s car door, and retrieving the money. Immediately after taking the cash, Klutse quickly returned to his vehicle and drove away.
Paragraph 4: Arrest, Confession, and Accomplices
Based on the CCTV evidence, a formal complaint was lodged with the police on December 4, 2024, the same day the theft occurred. Klutse was subsequently tracked down and arrested the following day. Under questioning, Klutse reportedly confessed to the crime, implicating two accomplices who remained at large. He further admitted to sharing the stolen money with his accomplices, claiming he used GHC15,000 of his GHC30,000 share to settle a debt.
Paragraph 5: Previous Employment and Method of Entry
Police investigations uncovered a significant connection between Klutse and the complainant. It was revealed that Klutse had been employed by Mr. Panford as a personal driver for seven years before their employment relationship ended. Crucially, the investigation also disclosed that during his employment, Klutse had taken possession of a spare key to the complainant’s car. The prosecution asserted that Klutse used this spare key to gain entry to the vehicle and steal the GHC50,000.
Paragraph 6: Ongoing Investigation and Legal Proceedings
With Klutse’s confession and the CCTV evidence, the prosecution appears to have a strong case against him. However, the investigation continues, focusing on locating and apprehending Klutse’s two alleged accomplices. The recovery of the remaining stolen money is also a priority for the police. The case, adjourned until February 12, 2025, will likely involve further investigation, witness testimonies, and the presentation of evidence before the court can reach a verdict. The bail granted to Klutse allows him to remain free pending the outcome of the trial, but the significant bail amount reflects the seriousness of the charges against him. The court’s insistence on sureties residing within its jurisdiction aims to ensure Klutse’s appearance at future court proceedings.
