Accra: Corn Miller in Courtroom for Planning to Set Kantamanto Retail Outlets Ablaze

Introduction

Residents and traders in Accra, particularly within the bustling Kantamanto market area, are following a developing legal situation involving a local corn miller. A 26-year-old man has been arraigned before the Accra Circuit Court, facing serious allegations regarding his intentions toward specific retail outlets in the market. The case, which centers on accusations of conspiracy to commit arson, highlights ongoing concerns regarding market safety and personal disputes in commercial hubs. As the legal process unfolds, the court has detailed specific bail conditions and adjourned the hearing to a later date.

Key Points

Background

The incident leading to the arrest occurred on December 9, 2025. According to the prosecution, led by Chief Inspector Ebenezer Teye-Akuffo, the complainants, headed by Simon Nyala, were conducting surveillance at the Kantamanto market. During this surveillance, they received intelligence suggesting that an individual was actively planning to set fire to several retail outlets within the commercial area.

Based on this information, the complainants apprehended the suspect and handed him over to the Regional Police Command. The background to the allegations suggests that the suspect was not acting on impulse but had engaged in preliminary activities that suggested a genuine intent to carry out the threat. This led to a formal police inquiry and subsequent court proceedings.

Analysis

The prosecution’s case relies heavily on the statements provided by the accused during police interrogation and the physical evidence recovered. The charge of “preparation to cause unlawful damage” is a specific legal classification that focuses on intent and preliminary actions, rather than the successful completion of a crime.

The Prosecution’s Narrative

The prosecution alleges that Kwame Asare admitted to investigators that he decided to burn the stores because he felt he was being harassed by certain individuals within the market vicinity. This admission forms a core part of the prosecution’s argument regarding motive and intent. By acknowledging his plan to the police, the accused inadvertently provided the necessary element for the charge of preparation.

Evidentiary Findings

Crucial to the state’s case is the discovery made during a search of the suspect’s residence. The prosecutor informed the court that a search conducted at the accused’s room within the market revealed several liters of petrol stored in a gallon. The presence of an accelerant in the immediate possession of a suspect who has admitted to planning a fire is a significant piece of circumstantial evidence that strengthens the prosecution’s claim of preparation.

Legal Plea and Defense

The accused, Kwame Asare, has pleaded not guilty to the charge. In criminal law, a “not guilty” plea forces the prosecution to prove the allegations beyond a reasonable doubt. The defense may argue that the possession of petrol was for a legitimate purpose (such as for a generator or vehicle) or that the statements made to the police were coerced or misunderstood. However, the combination of the confession and the discovery of the petrol presents a challenging legal hurdle for the defense.

Practical Advice

For residents and business owners in high-density commercial areas like Kantamanto, this case serves as a reminder of the importance of security and conflict resolution.

For Traders and Business Owners

• Report Suspicious Activity: If you notice individuals loitering unusually or discussing plans that could threaten the safety of the market, report it to the police immediately. The complainants in this case acted on intelligence.
• De-escalation: Personal disputes can sometimes escalate into criminal acts. If you feel threatened or are in a dispute with a neighbor or business associate, seek mediation through market associations or legal channels rather than taking matters into your own hands.
• Security Audits: Ensure that your outlets have adequate security measures, including fire safety equipment and surveillance where possible.

For Individuals Facing Harassment

• Legal Recourse: If you feel you are being harassed or threatened, as the accused claimed, the appropriate response is to file a formal complaint with the police or seek a restraining order. Resorting to threats of violence or arson is a criminal offense that carries severe penalties.
• Mental Health Support: Feelings of frustration and helplessness can lead to poor decision-making. Accessing counseling services or community support groups can provide healthier outlets for stress.

FAQ

Conclusion

The case of the 26-year-old corn miller highlights the severe consequences of planning violent acts, even if they are not carried out. While the defense has entered a plea of not guilty, the discovery of petrol and the alleged confession to police investigators form a substantial basis for the prosecution’s case. As the Accra Circuit Court awaits the filing of disclosures and witness statements, the legal proceedings will determine whether the accused’s intent translates into criminal liability under Ghanaian law. The matter has been adjourned until January 27, 2026, leaving the court to weigh the evidence against the presumption of innocence.

Sources

• Life Pulse Daily – Original News Report (Published: 2025-12-18)
• Accra Circuit Court Records – Case Proceedings