Eight plead guilty to conspiracy charges in Ablekuma North by-election violence

The Accra Circuit Court has granted bail to eight individuals who pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to commit crime and assault in connection with the violent disturbances that marred the Ablekuma North parliamentary by-election held on July 11, 2025.

Each of the accused was granted bail in the sum of ₵80,000 with one surety, as the court adjourned the case to August 29, 2025, for further proceedings.

The accused are:

• Mohammed Abubakari, 32, Private Security Officer

• Tijani Mahamudu, 38, Driver

• Prince Dzakpasu, 39, Businessman

• Anas Mohammed, 42, Estate Developer

• Mohammed Hamda, 35, Mechanic

• Darko Otibu Samuel, 33, Businessman

• Musah Muntari, 46, Station Manager

• Ali Saeed, also known as Bomba, 43, Businessman

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The eight were arrested by the Accra Regional Police Command after preliminary investigations and the review of viral videos circulated on mainstream and social media, which linked them to the electoral violence.

They were charged with conspiracy to commit crime, to wit: assault, and assault, contrary to Sections 23(1) and 84 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29). All eight pleaded guilty to the charges when arraigned before the court.

The violence during the by-election sparked widespread condemnation and raised concerns about electoral security and political vigilantism.

The Police, in a statement, reaffirmed their commitment to pursuing justice and maintaining peace and order, especially during electoral processes.

The court's decision to grant bail was received with mixed reactions from the public, but legal analysts say it is part of due process as investigations and judicial proceedings continue.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith