 |
ACP / Mr Raymond Kofi Erzuah |
The Kpando Divisional Police Commander, ACP / Mr Raymond Kofi Erzuah outlines police investigations, confirms the suspect admitted to taking the child, reveals another attempted incident, and urges the public to remain vigilant
By Prosper Wise Amegbe
The Ghana Police Service has released new official details regarding the alleged child stealing case that has attracted widespread public attention in Kpando and surrounding communities.
Speaking to the media after court proceedings, the Divisional Police Commander for Kpando, ACP Raymond Kofi Erzuah, provided an update on the investigation, the suspect's status, and measures being taken to uncover the full circumstances of the case.
The update follows the accused's appearance before the Kpando Circuit Court, presided over by Her Honour Dzifa Amefinu Dina, where the case was adjourned to Monday, 27 July, to allow investigators additional time to complete their work.
Suspect Identified
According to ACP Erzuah, the accused person is Stella Amedorme, a 31-year-old woman who told investigators she is a mother of seven children.
Police say the alleged incident occurred on Thursday, 16 July, at about 3:30 p.m. at the Kpando Market, around the Volta Circuit area.
The complainant, Gloria Mansa, reported to police that her eight-month-old baby [Joel Dzidefo Acheampong] had gone missing after being left briefly in the care of a woman she had never met while selling groundnuts.
Following the report, police immediately commenced investigations.
Police Response
ACP Erzuah explained that immediately after the complaint was lodged, officers obtained photographs of the child and circulated them through available police communication channels to aid the search.
Police also issued a medical examination form to the complainant so that once the child was found, he could immediately receive medical attention due to his tender age.
According to the Commander, these early interventions formed part of the emergency response mounted by the Police.
Suspect Arrested in Toviate (Island around Kwamekrom)
 |
| Stella Amedorme, suspect. |
The accused says she comes from Sogakope in the South Tongu District.
Police investigations further indicate that the suspect allegedly travelled with the child to Toviate, where her partner resides.
According to ACP Erzuah, the suspect informed investigators that she has been in a relationship with the man for approximately two years.
Police say she allegedly introduced the rescued child to the man as the child she had previously told him she had given birth to for him.
The Commander stressed that this forms part of the ongoing investigation and that officers are working to verify every aspect of the suspect's account.
Health Condition Delayed Investigation
ACP Erzuah explained that immediately after her arrest, the suspect complained of dizziness to collapsing while in police custody.
She was therefore rushed to Anfoega Hospital, where she remained under medical care for two days.
Because of her medical condition, investigators were unable to conduct detailed interrogations immediately after the arrest.
The Commander confirmed that after consulting the attending medical doctor, police have been informed that the suspect has recovered and is medically fit.
Court Grants Police More Time
During proceedings before the Kpando Circuit Court, the Chief Investigator informed the court that police required additional time to interrogate the suspect thoroughly and gather further evidence.
 |
| Kpando Circuit Court premises |
The prosecution therefore requested an adjournment.
The court granted the request and remanded the accused into lawful custody until Monday, 27 July, when the matter is expected to return before the court.
Police: Suspect Admitted Taking the Child
ACP Erzuah revealed that during preliminary interactions with investigators, the suspect admitted taking the child.
.jpeg)
According to the Commander, the suspect repeatedly pleaded with investigators and claimed that "it was the work of the devil."
Responding to that explanation, ACP Erzuah remarked that investigators could only rely on evidence and facts established through their investigations.
He emphasised that police will continue gathering evidence to determine exactly what transpired.
Another Attempt Allegedly Foiled
One of the most significant revelations made by the Police Commander is that investigators are looking into another incident involving the same suspect.
According to ACP Erzuah, another female trader from Gbefi has come forward as a witness.
The witness reportedly sells onions and pepper.
Police say the witness told investigators that she encountered the same woman under circumstances similar to those reported by Gloria Mansa.
According to the witness's account, the suspect purchased onions and pepper worth approximately GH¢150 but claimed she had no cash available.
She allegedly requested that the trader go and withdraw money while leaving her mobile phone behind as security.
The suspect reportedly volunteered to look after the trader's child while she went to withdraw the money.
However, according to the witness, the child refused to go to the suspect, causing the mother to abandon the arrangement.
Police say this information now forms part of the ongoing investigation.
Investigation Still Ongoing
ACP Erzuah emphasised that although the suspect has been arrested and charged before the court, she remains presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.
He noted that investigators are exploring every possible angle surrounding the case.
Among the issues police intend to establish are:
- Whether the alleged offence was committed solely for the reason given by the suspect.
- Whether any other motive may have been involved.
- Whether additional persons may have participated.
- Whether the suspect's statements can be independently verified.
The Commander stressed that investigators will rely strictly on evidence.
Police Seek Cooperation from Suspect's Partner
ACP Erzuah further disclosed that the man identified by the suspect as her partner has become an important person in the investigation.
Police say he is expected to report voluntarily to assist investigators by confirming or denying the statements allegedly made by the suspect.
The Commander warned that should he fail to cooperate, police would take lawful steps necessary to secure his attendance for questioning.
Emergency Numbers for the Public
ACP Erzuah encouraged the public to report emergencies promptly and urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant, particularly in busy public places such as markets.
He reminded residents that they can contact the Ghana Police Service through the following emergency numbers:
- 191
- 112
- 18555
He emphasised that early reporting greatly improves the chances of successful police intervention.
Police Urge Public to Avoid Speculation
The Divisional Police Commander appealed to the public to allow investigators to complete their work without spreading rumours or misinformation.
He assured residents that the Police Service remains committed to conducting a thorough, impartial, and professional investigation into the matter.
As investigations continue, Akpini News & Tours will keep the public informed with verified updates from official sources.
Editor's Note
This report is based on an address to the media by ACP Raymond Kofi Erzuah, Divisional Police Commander for Kpando, following proceedings at the Kpando Circuit Court. Some aspects of the case remain under active police investigation. The accused, Stella Amedorme, is before the court and, under Ghanaian law, is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Post a Comment