This case revolves around Daniel Dziwornu, a 34-year-old farmer, who was sentenced to three years in prison for engaging in sexual intercourse with his 21-year-old biological sister over a period spanning from 2020 to 2024. The case unfolds in Hohoe, Ghana, where the siblings resided following the death of their mother during the victim’s early childhood. Dziwornu, having assumed the role of caregiver, lived with his sister and subsequently began a pattern of sexual abuse. This abuse resulted in three terminated pregnancies, a grim testament to the repeated nature of the crime. The victim eventually sought refuge at her boyfriend’s residence, accompanied by her three-and-a-half-year-old daughter, in an attempt to escape the abusive environment.
Dziwornu’s actions did not cease with the victim’s departure. He pursued her to her boyfriend’s home and forcibly removed his niece, demonstrating a continued disregard for the victim’s well-being and autonomy. This act prompted the victim to confide in a neighbor, a social worker, who subsequently facilitated the reporting of the abuse to the police. Dziwornu was apprehended by authorities on May 17, 2025, while en route to Aflao with the victim’s daughter, highlighting his intent to further separate the victim from her child.
The prosecution, led by Chief Inspector Charles Aziati, presented a strong case against Dziwornu, characterizing his actions as “barbaric, unacceptable, and deviant” to both societal ethics and cultural norms. Aziati emphasized the gravity of the crime and urged the court to impose a substantial sentence to serve as a deterrent to others. Dziwornu, during the proceedings, pleaded guilty with an explanation, attributing his actions to the influence of alcohol. However, the court, presided over by Mr. Lambert Y. Keriba, rejected this explanation, asserting that intoxication did not absolve him of responsibility for his criminal behavior. The court subsequently entered a guilty plea for the convict.
The case underscores a deeply disturbing instance of incestuous abuse, exacerbated by the inherent power imbalance between the older brother acting as a caregiver and the younger, vulnerable sister. The repeated nature of the abuse, resulting in multiple terminated pregnancies, further emphasizes the severity of the crime and the profound trauma inflicted upon the victim. The perpetrator’s actions demonstrate a clear pattern of manipulation and control, culminating in the abduction of the victim’s child. This act underscores the perpetrator’s disregard for the victim’s emotional well-being and his calculated attempt to maintain control over her.
The prosecution’s forceful condemnation of the crime, coupled with the court’s rejection of the perpetrator’s explanation based on alcohol consumption, sends a clear message about the seriousness with which such offenses are viewed within the legal system. The three-year prison sentence, while providing a measure of justice for the victim, also serves as a stark warning to potential offenders. Furthermore, the case highlights the crucial role of the social worker in supporting the victim and facilitating her access to justice. The social worker’s involvement was instrumental in bringing the perpetrator to account for his actions.
This case brings to the forefront the often-hidden reality of intrafamilial sexual abuse. The victim’s bravery in coming forward, with the support of her neighbor, is commendable and underscores the importance of fostering environments where survivors feel safe to disclose such crimes. The legal system’s response, in this instance, demonstrates a commitment to holding perpetrators accountable for their actions and providing a measure of justice for survivors. However, the case also highlights the ongoing need for education, prevention strategies, and support services to address the root causes of such abuse and protect vulnerable individuals within families and communities. The long-term impact on the victim, her child, and the extended family remains a serious concern requiring ongoing support and intervention.
