Accra, June 17, GNA - Trial has began at an Accra Fast Track High Court of Dextor Johnson, a consultant who allegedly shot, butchered and burned an American businessman. Dextor charged with conspiracy and murdering Jon Kragness, pleaded not guilty before a seven-member jury at the court, presided over Mr Justice Baffoe Bonney. His accomplice Charles Ansah Johnson alias Charlie is on the run. The court remanded Dextor to reappear on June 27.

The case of prosecution was that on May 27, last year, at about 1500 hours, Dextor went to INDO Guest house, where Kragness was lodging. On arrival, Dextor left his accomplice, Charles in a waiting car and had some discussion with Kragness. Soon after, Kragness informed two hotel attendants that he was travelling with Dextor to Takoradi, Winneba and Tarkwa to purchase gold. Kragness joined Dextor in the car for the journey whiles Charles was left behind.

Dextor and the deceased who were being trailed by security agents travelled to Prampram. The security agents lost track after Dextor took a detour to a feeder road. Investigations revealed that on reaching a spot, near Old Ningo, the deceased was taken out of the car, shot and butchered with a cutlass.

A look at the deceased revealed that his forefinger had been chopped off, while some petrol had been sprinkled on him and set ablaze. Prosecution said the chief and people of Salom village who heard the wailing of the deceased rushed to check only to see a car leaving the scene while Kragness was found lying in a pool of blood with part of his body partially burnt. A report was made to the police and the body was deposited at the Police hospital mortuary. Prosecution said a post mortem examination said he died from severe haemorrhage and partial decapitation. The body has since been flown to America for burial.