Two Men Sentenced to Seven Years for Defilement of Minor

Two men, Joseph Boateng and Hashim Zurakanini, were each sentenced to seven years in prison for the defilement of a 12-year-old girl. The incident occurred on May 22, 2025, when Boateng lured the victim to his home, where Zurakanini assaulted her. The case underscores the ongoing efforts in Ghana to combat sexual violence against children, with authorities calling for community vigilance to protect minors.

In a case that has shaken the community, two men have been sentenced to seven years in prison each for the defilement of a minor. Joseph Boateng, 37, known locally as Afriy Pepper, and Hashim Zurakanini, 27, also called Scare Them, received their sentences on May 23, 2025, from the Jasikan Circuit Court. This follows a distressing incident that took place a day earlier.

The allegations date back to May 22, 2025, when police reported that Boateng approached a 12-year-old girl who was returning home from fetching water. Offering the victim a sum of GHC 2,000, he enticed her to his residence located in Kas Market. Once there, things worsened. Boateng allegedly facilitated Hashim Zurakanini in sexually assaulting her, under the guise that he needed to use his sperm for a supposed charm.

Following these actions, the case was quickly escalated to the Jasikan Circuit Court. His Honour Yinigabagae Ketha presided over the trial, where both men were convicted—Boateng for abetting the assault and Zurakanini for the defilement itself. They now face hard labor during their seven-year sentences.

Deputy Superintendent of Police John Ichor, representing the Oti Region’s public affairs, confirmed the sentencing. He reiterated the local police’s ongoing commitment to shield minors from sexual exploitation and urged community members to report any suspicious behavior promptly. This swift action is essential for ensuring justice and preventing similar crimes.

This disturbing case underscores the continuing efforts by law enforcement and the judicial system in Ghana to combat the sexual violence that affects children. Authorities stress the need for heightened community awareness and cooperation to better protect vulnerable minors from becoming victims of such heinous acts. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and to communicate any concerns they may have regarding the safety of children in their neighborhoods.

With these sentences, there is hope that justice will resonate in the community, shining a light on the importance of safeguarding the well-being of children against sexual predators. The need for active reporting and community involvement is clearer than ever, as the fight against child exploitation continues.

Overall, this case is a stark reminder of the realities some children face and the ongoing efforts required from all sectors of society to create safer environments for the youth.

In summary, Joseph Boateng and Hashim Zurakanini were sentenced to seven years each for defilement of a minor, highlighting a serious issue of child safety in the community. The conviction serves as an important reminder of the need for community vigilance and prompt reporting of such crimes. Law enforcement continues to stress their commitment to protecting children, calling on the public for cooperation to prevent future incidents. Such efforts are vital to secure a safe environment for the youth.

Original Source: asaaseradio.com