Community Expresses Outrage as Jirapa Dubai Murder Case Moved to Kumasi

Residents of Jirapa in the Upper West Region are expressing outrage over the decision to transfer the murder trial of Eric Johnson, CEO of the Royal Cosy Hills Hotel, to Kumasi.

The trial was halted by the Wa High Court following claims from the accused’s lawyers that the Chief Justice had ordered the case to be moved to Kumasi.

This decision has sparked discontent among members of the Jirapa community, who were present in court during the proceedings.

Three individuals are on trial for the brutal murder of Mr Johnson, and state prosecutors and the defence team were prepared to start the hearing when the accused’s counsel submitted a letter claiming the Chief Justice’s directive.

The court paused proceedings to verify the authenticity of the letter from the Chief Justice’s office, leaving Principal State Attorney Saed Abdul Shakuur surprised at the sudden turn of events.

Jirapa residents present at the court expressed their intention to resist the decision, questioning the legitimacy of the petition that prompted the Chief Justice’s directive.

They argue that since the murder occurred in Jirapa, it is only fair for the trial to be held there, rather than in Kumasi. They also voiced concerns about the inconvenience and cost of travelling to Kumasi for every hearing.

The community is adamant about holding the trial in Wa, where the crime took place, and is calling for a reconsideration of the decision to move the case to Kumasi.