The Amasaman Circuit Court has sentenced Akwasi Obeng, a 46-year-old mason, to 48 months’ imprisonment with hard labor for stealing 17 cattle valued at GHC228,000. Obeng admitted to the crime, explaining that he took the animals because his employer failed to pay him an agreed GHC700 monthly salary. He claimed he acted out of hardship while caring for his two children ¹ ².
The court also imposed a fine of GHC6,000, which Obeng must pay in default of an additional 12 months in prison. The judge, Mrs. Akosua Anokyewaa Adjepong, considered Obeng’s plea for leniency, the recovery of most of the cattle, and his status as a first-time offender. However, she emphasized the need for deterrence due to the prevalence of cattle theft in the area.
Case Details:
– Accused: Akwasi Obeng, 46-year-old mason
– Crime: Stealing 17 cattle valued at GHC228,000
– Sentence: 48 months’ imprisonment with hard labor
– Fine: GHC6,000 (default of 12 months’ imprisonment)
– Employer’s Response: Obeng’s employer had not paid him GHC700 monthly salary
Follow-up questions:
1. What are the common reasons behind cattle theft in Ghana, and how can it be prevented?
2. How does the Ghanaian court system handle cases of theft and property damage, especially when the accused is a first-time offender?