A mason has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for the murder of Professor Emmanuel Yaw Benneh, a former lecturer at the University of Ghana Law School.
The Accra High Court handed down the verdict on Thursday, following the gruesome killing of Prof Benneh in September 2020. The mason, Christian Pobee, was found guilty of murder and conspiracy to commit murder.
According to the prosecution, Pobee and his accomplices stormed the residence of Prof Benneh, tied him up, and tortured him to death. The motive behind the murder was reportedly a dispute over money.
During the trial, the prosecution presented evidence linking Pobee to the crime scene, including DNA samples and eyewitness testimonies. Pobee’s accomplices, however, are still at large, and investigations are ongoing to apprehend them.
The murder of Prof Benneh sent shockwaves throughout the academic community in Ghana and sparked outrage among the public. Many called for swift justice and an end to the culture of impunity surrounding violent crimes.
In delivering the verdict, Justice Samuel Asiedu emphasized the severity of the crime and the need for justice to be served. He stated, “The court cannot condone such heinous acts, and the sentence reflects the gravity of the offense.”
The sentencing of Pobee brings some closure to the family and friends of Prof Benneh, who have been mourning his loss since his tragic death. However, it also serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the criminal justice system in Ghana and the need for reforms to ensure swift and fair trials.
As Ghana moves forward from this tragedy, there is hope that the authorities will continue to prioritize the safety and security of all citizens, working tirelessly to bring perpetrators of violent crimes to justice.
Source: Graphic Online
