Trader Remanded for Alleged Armed Robbery in Accra

Prosper Otoo has been remanded by the Accra Circuit Court for allegedly robbing a woman with a cutlass. The attack on Madam Naomi Kwarteng involved the loss of her handbag and personal items. Otoo, alongside an unnamed accomplice, reportedly fled the scene but was later apprehended by police. A trial is set for February 12, 2025, pending Otoo’s bail request, which was opposed by the prosecution due to safety concerns.

A trader named Prosper Otoo has been remanded in custody by the Accra Circuit Court for allegedly robbing a woman, Madam Naomi Kwarteng, with a cutlass. Otoo, who has denied the charges and claims he did not conspire with an accomplice, faces charges related to the attack which occurred on November 16, 2024. His accomplice is currently at large, and Otoo is scheduled to appear in court again on February 12, 2025.

During a hearing presided over by Mrs. Susan Eduful, Police Chief Inspector Ebenezer Teye-Okufo stated that Madam Kwarteng was approached while traveling to work. Otoo, riding as a passenger on a motorcycle, reportedly brandished a cutlass and threatened her into relinquishing her handbag, valued at GH¢1,500, which contained a Samsung phone worth GH¢1,000, cash, and personal items. After the robbery, the assailants fled the scene on their motorcycle.

Following the incident, Madam Kwarteng promptly reported the crime to local authorities at Amasaman Police. Inspector Teye-Okufo mentioned that several other victims in the area had described similar robbery methods, indicating a possible trend in local crime. Later the same day, police spotted Otoo and two companions, leading them to chase and apprehend the suspects with public assistance.

During investigations, Madam Kwarteng was able to identify Otoo as the person who attacked her. Although Otoo’s legal counsel requested bail, stressing his willingness to participate in the trial with dependable sureties, the prosecution opposed the request. They argued that Otoo’s history of criminal activity presented a threat to public safety.

This incident highlights ongoing issues of street crime in Accra, particularly involving threats with weapons. The public’s rising fear, as various merchants have experienced similar robberies, signals a need for increased police presence and preventive measures in the area. This case also emphasizes the significance of rapid police response and community cooperation in apprehending suspects. Otoo’s case is underlined by the larger context of crime prevalence, with reports indicating a pattern of robberies using motorbikes, suggesting organized groups or repeat offenders within the vicinity. This incident not only draws attention to individual crime but points to systemic challenges faced by law enforcement as they address emerging crime trends in urban areas.

The Accra Circuit Court has remanded Prosper Otoo for the alleged robbery of Madam Naomi Kwarteng, reflecting broader trends of violent street crime in Accra. The court proceedings will continue with Otoo’s next appearance scheduled for February 12, 2025, as police continue investigations related to the spate of similar crimes in the area. This case emphasizes the dynamics of public safety, community collaboration, and law enforcement’s ongoing battle against crime.

Original Source: www.ghanabusinessnews.com