General News of Wednesday, 21 March 2001

Source: Ghanaian Chronicle

Ex-chief Granted ?500,000 Bail Over Stealing Charges

The destooled Omanhene of Ajumako Traditional Area Hammah Ababio, known in private life as Kwame Gyabi standing trial with his nephew, Kobina Baah at a Cape Coast Circuit Court for trespassing and stealing two hundred palm trees, have been granted bail in the sum of ?500,000 each with one surety.

They are to appear before the court again later month.

Presenting the case before Justice Bentil, Police Inspector Hope Azanzoo of Cape Coast said that one Yaw Afari of Ajumako-Osedzi reported to the police that, the dethroned Omanhene together with his nephew, named, above, entered into his palm plantation and fell two hundred palm trees without his knowledge.

The police further stated that, their investigation into the report established the fact of conspiracy to steal the palm trees and stealing and as a result they were charged with the offence.

Granting bail, the presiding judge said in order that the palm trees should not go spoilt, the police should find someone to tap the palms and the money accrued should be deposited with the court for it to be released to its rightful owner after the determination of the case.