Akim Swedru (E/R), Dec. 15, GNA - The Akim Swedru Circuit Court in the Birim South District, has sentenced Emmanuel Kwaku Danso, a barber and Isaac Ofosu, a drivers' mate to five years imprisonment each for stealing. The two were convicted for stealing mobile phones and accessories estimated at 1,650 Ghana Cedis from the complainant, Mr. Yaw Duodu, a trader.

A police search in Ofosu's room also revealed that he had concealed a locally manufactured fire-arm with two live ammunitions in a drawer. The two pleaded guilty to conspiracy, stealing, possession of stolen property and possession of fire-arms without authority. Presenting the facts of the case, Police Detective Inspector Kwaku Appiah told the court presided over by Mr. Kofi Akrowiah that the complainant who is a mobile phone and accessories dealer closed from work on December 5 and went home. He said at about 2230 hours Danso who was monitoring the complainant's movement succeeded in opening the door with an implement.

Inspector Appiah said Danso made away with a number of mobile phones and accessories as well as a DVD player and an amplifier and attempted to set the shop ablaze. The prosecutor said Danso hid the items in a bush at Akim Asene and later contacted Ofosu who joined him to collect the items to his room while he looks for a prospective buyer.

He said Danso contacted a witness in the case who feigned interest in the deal and alerted the police. Inspector Appiah said on December 8, when Danso sent the stolen items to the witness the police arrested him. He said during interrogation, Danso mentioned Ofosu as an accomplice.