Crime & Punishment of Tuesday, 21 February 2006

Source: GNA

Farmer remanded for refusing 4,500 coins as change

Bawku (UER) Feb. 21, GNA- The Bawku Circuit Court has remanded a farmer to prison custody for allegedly refusing to accept 4,500 coins as change from a food vendor and thereby assaulting her and destroying her wares at Yariago, near Zebilla.

Azuma Ayobi, who was also charged for resisting lawful arrest pleaded not guilty.

Prosecuting, Police Inspector Dentis Atigsika told the court presided over by Mr Alex Owusu Ofori that at about 0900 hours on 17 January, this year, Azuma bought a stick of cigarette at 500 cedis and gave out 5,000 cedis but the complainant could not get change for him so the accused left with the money. Insp. Atigsika said during the afternoon, Azuma came with the same note and demanded 1,000 cedis worth of cooked rice, but complainant pleaded with him to exercise patience for his turn since she was serving other customers.

He said the accused took offence and left and shortly afterwards, he returned in an angry mood to demand his change. Insp. Atigsika said when the complainant gave him the change in coins he declined to accept it. He said without provocation, Azuma pushed the food and wares on the ground and when complainant attempted to pick them he kicked her in the abdomen.

A good Samaritan who came to her rescue had to retreat after receiving a slap from Azuma and the case was reported to the police. When the police went to effect his arrest he resisted. 21 Feb. 06