The police have yet to receive the Bill of Indictment in the case of Nana Barima Ababio, also known as Benlord Ababio, who allegedly shot and killed a soldier over a land dispute in Kasoa.
Once received, the Bill of Indictment will be served on both the accused and the court, enabling the commencement of committal proceedings for the defendants to stand trial at the High Court.
Detective Inspector Samuel Adu Berchie informed the court that the accused, Benlord Ababio and Nana Amo Kofi Kwakye, were not present in court on Thursday due to security concerns.
The prosecution explained that the police had received information that the family of the deceased soldier planned to storm the courtroom during his burial today.
As a result, the court adjourned the case to July 4, 2024, and ordered the police to release the deceased’s vehicle to his family.
Benlord, a self-proclaimed traditional ruler, and Kwakye are facing charges at the Achimota District Court for their alleged involvement in the murder of Lance Corporal Michael Danso.
Upon reviewing the police docket, the Attorney General’s office advised that Benlord be charged with murder and that both Benlord and Kwakye be jointly charged with conspiracy. The court has, however, reserved their pleas.
According to the prosecution, on April 30, 2024, around 1600 hours, Lance Corporal Michael Danso, along with two colleagues, Lance Corporals Abdul Omar Rahman and Ametus Matthew, drove to Millennium City Police Station in a Toyota RAV4 to report a trespass.
They had been informed that encroachers were developing land belonging to Lance Corporal Abdul Omar Rahman.
Benlord reportedly arrived at the police station, attacked Lance Corporal Michael Danso, and opened fire, killing him instantly. He was subsequently disarmed and arrested by the police.
Following further investigations, the police also arrested Kwakye.