Paragraph 1: Introduction
The case revolves around Prince Awuah, a 26-year-old illegal miner, who was sentenced to 16 months imprisonment with hard labor by the Tarkwa District Magistrate Court One. He was charged with unlawful entry and causing damage, to which he pleaded guilty. The incident occurred in Aboso, a town within the jurisdiction of the court. The complainant, Solomon Donkor, a local farmer, and his family were the victims of Awuah’s actions. The events unfolded on the night of April 19, 2025, and the early hours of the next day.
Paragraph 2: The Night of the Incident
On the night of April 19, 2025, Solomon Donkor, along with his family and relatives, secured their homes and went to bed. Around 2:00 am, Donkor’s elder brother, a key witness in the case, awoke for prayers and noticed smoke emanating from his room. This discovery would set in motion a chain of events leading to Awuah’s arrest and subsequent conviction. The smoke served as the first indication of something amiss, prompting further investigation by the witness.
Paragraph 3: Discovering the Culprit
Upon investigating the source of the smoke, Donkor’s brother found Prince Awuah in the act of setting clothes on fire near the electricity meter box, with the apparent intention of igniting the entire house. This act was not only reckless but also posed a significant threat to the lives of the occupants. The witness immediately raised an alarm, summoning help from nearby residents, including Solomon Donkor. The collective effort of the community members led to Awuah’s apprehension.
Paragraph 4: Apprehension and Police Involvement
Following his capture, Awuah was taken to the Aboso police station, where an official complaint was lodged against him by Solomon Donkor. A search conducted by the police revealed a lighter in Awuah’s possession, further implicating him in the attempted arson. During questioning, Awuah confessed to the crimes, attributing his actions to the influence of alcohol and Indian hemp. This admission formed the basis of his guilty plea in court.
Paragraph 5: Court Proceedings and Sentencing
The case was presented before the Tarkwa District Magistrate Court One, presided over by Mr. Charles Owusu Nsiah. Police Sergeant Enoch Assan-Donkoh served as the prosecutor, presenting the evidence against Awuah. Given Awuah’s confession and the supporting evidence, the court found him guilty of unlawful entry and causing damage. He was subsequently sentenced to 16 months imprisonment with hard labor. The sentence reflects the severity of the crime and the potential danger it posed to the victims.
Paragraph 6: Conclusion and Implications
The case of Prince Awuah underscores the potential dangers associated with illegal activities and substance abuse. His actions not only threatened the lives and property of innocent individuals but also resulted in his incarceration. The incident highlights the importance of community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement in maintaining safety and security. Furthermore, it serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of making reckless decisions under the influence of intoxicants. The court’s decision sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated, and perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions.
