Kwabenya Court Denies Bail To 6 Over Cocaine Export
Kwabenya Circuit Court in Accra has denied bail to 6 persons accused of being connected to the export of nearly 4 tonnes of suspected cocaine from Ghana to France. The court ruled that the gravity of the offence and ongoing investigations warrant continued detention. The case has drawn national attention due to the size of the consignment.
The 6 accused persons are Francis Narh Amanor, Frank Adu Boahen, Togbe Agbeti, Andrews Tetteh Amponsah, Daniel Laryea and Helena Akua Denkyi. Prosecutors told the court that the suspected narcotics were concealed in cargo that transited through Ghana ports. The court adjourned the case for further investigations and advice from the Attorney General.
Prosecution argued that the accused persons if granted bail could interfere with evidence and flight risk was high given international links. Defense lawyers pleaded for bail citing constitutional rights and claim that their clients are innocent until proven guilty. The presiding judge dismissed the application and remanded them into custody.
In Ghana, narcotic offences are prosecuted under the Narcotics Control Commission Act 2020 Act 1019 which provides for 10 to 25 years imprisonment for trafficking and exportation. Circuit Courts handle preliminary hearings and can remand suspects while investigations continue. Similar to how the Computerized School Selection and Placement System guides school placement, WASSCE grading from A1 to F9 determines academic progression, Free SHS policy funds secondary education, Energy Commission licensing regulates electricians and Galamsey laws under the Minerals and Mining Act curb illegal mining, drug control relies on port surveillance and international cooperation, and according to the Kwabenya Circuit Court prosecution team the 4 tonne cocaine case requires deeper forensic analysis.
The seizure linked to France is one of the largest suspected cocaine exports intercepted in recent years involving Ghana as transit point. Security experts say cartels exploit weak cargo verification and collusion at ports. Government has directed an inter agency task force to deliver a roadmap within 2 weeks to tighten border controls.
The court has ordered that the accused persons reappear on a later date for continuation. Families of the accused were present in court as the ruling was delivered. The public awaits results of laboratory tests to confirm the substance and quantity.
Source: #Howedey.com
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Author: Korkor Anumu
