A 28-year-old unemployed man, Emmanuel Takyi, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison with hard labor for stealing from his former employer and attempting to rob him. Takyi was convicted by the Tarkwa Circuit Court after pleading guilty to both charges. The court was presided over by Mrs. Hathia Ama Manu.
Crime Details
According to Police Chief Inspector Abraham Ayitey, the complainant in the case is a gold buyer from Wassa Japa, located in the Wassa Amenfi East Municipality. Takyi and the complainant, who hails from the same town of Derma in the Ahafo Region, knew each other. Two months ago, Takyi worked as an employee at the complainant’s gold refinery shop at Wassa Dadieso near Wassa Akropong.
During his time at the shop, Takyi stole GH¢28,000 from the gold shop. After committing the theft, he traveled to Koforidua and made plans to leave the country, but squandered all the stolen money before he could carry out his escape.
Attempted Robbery Plot
In a desperate move, Takyi then decided to return to Wassa Akropong and rob the complainant. He contacted a local witness, who pretended to be interested in collaborating on the robbery plan. However, the witness secretly informed the complainant about Takyi’s intentions.
The robbery was planned for Sunday, September 29, 2024. Fortunately, the police were alerted to the plot after receiving detailed information about Takyi’s whereabouts, including the registration number of the vehicle he was traveling in, his attire, and his position in the vehicle.
Police Intervention
The police set up a temporary roadblock at Nkonya, near Wassa Akropong, and intercepted the vehicle as it approached the area. Takyi and the witness were arrested, and Takyi admitted to the theft and the planned robbery during his caution statement. He explained that he had stolen the money due to hardship and had planned the robbery in an attempt to further benefit from the complainant.
Takyi’s arrest thwarted the planned robbery, and the police’s timely intervention prevented any harm from coming to the complainant.
Legal Outcome
Takyi’s guilty plea and the evidence presented by the prosecution led to his conviction and sentencing. The court sentenced him to 15 years in prison with hard labor, sending a clear message about the severity of his crimes.
This case highlights the importance of vigilance and the role of individuals in preventing crime, as the witness who reported Takyi’s plans played a critical part in stopping the robbery.