A self-acclaimed businessman, Yahuza Osumanu, in court for robbing the former 2nd Lady, Mrs Matilda Amissah-Arthur, has been denied bail.
The accused faces 26 counts, comprising 20 counts of robbery and six counts of money laundering at the Accra High Court.
In addition to robbing Mrs Amissah Arthur of her valuables including GH¢3,000, $2,200, and €50 as well as a gold watch and necklace, the accused strangled and repeatedly hit her head with his gun.
Moving his bail application, counsel for the accused, Paul Asibi Abariga, assured the court that his client would be present for all trials since there was no incentive for him to abscond.
But the prosecution led by Senior State Attorney Nana Ama Adinkra disagreed.
According to the prosecution, the accused may try to escape due to the overwhelming evidence against him.
They further pointed out that he was arrested after he went into hiding to evade prosecution.
After listening to both parties, the court sided with the prosecution.
Justice Lydia Osei Marfo refused the bail application, adding that she couldn’t trust that the accused person would not abscond mid-trial.
The trial judge said she must act in the interest of society and the victims involved in the case.
“I am of the considered opinion that looking at the nature of the accusations against the accused and the nature of evidence….I am inclined to believe that he will not avail himself to stand trial when granted bail,” Justice Marfo ruled.
The accused would remain in custody until the next court date, May 21, 2024.