A compassionate Ghanaian man, Cletus Akabikire Akabikire marked his birthday by paying a total of Ghc14,200 to secure the release of two individuals from Nsawam prison. These ex-convicts, Ashitey, a carpenter, and Koffie, a widowed farmer with ten children, were unable to afford their fines, leading to their imprisonment at the Nsawam Camp Prison.
Ashitey’s situation unfolded when a heated argument with his elder brothers turned violent after they threatened him with a cutlass. Unable to control himself, Ashitey engaged in a physical altercation, leading to his arrest. Fined Ghc9,400, which he couldn’t pay, he received a four-year jail term for assault.
On the other hand, Koffie, a farmer coping with the loss of his wife, found himself behind bars four months after her demise. Arrested for narcotics possession, his story involved defending his farm against trespassing cows. Koffie killed 10 cows belonging to a group of Fulanis for invading his farm and destroying his crops. Subsequently beaten by Fulani herdsmen, Koffie was reported to the police, who discovered weed in his house. Charged with possession of narcotics and fined Ghc4,800, he couldn’t afford the amount, resulting in a 15-month jail term, leaving his ten children without parental care.
The benevolent gesture of the birthday celebrant facilitated the release of Ashitey and Koffie, providing them with an opportunity to reintegrate into society and resume their respective professions. Expressing deep gratitude, they pledged to avoid actions that might lead to their return to prison.
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