Judge slams prosecution over delays in Oyarifa cocaine case

Justice Ruby Aryeetey is overseeing the Oyarifa cocaine bust case. This case involves a Nigerian national, Chima Uchechukwu, aged 56. He was arrested with 192 kilograms of cocaine and 0.42 kilograms of heroin. The drugs are valued at $2.1 million and were seized during a Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) operation.

The judge criticized the prosecution for ongoing delays in the investigation. The prosecution has frequently requested adjournments, which frustrated Justice Aryeetey. On April 14, lead prosecutor Watson Adama asked for more time to file new charges. He mentioned that they had just received a report from the Ghana Standards Authority.

Adama stated, “I respectfully request the opportunity to file a new charge sheet.” He wanted to incorporate findings from this report before asking the accused to enter a plea. However, Justice Aryeetey expressed her displeasure over these delays.

She warned that she would not allow continued detention without a formal plea. She reminded the prosecution that NACOC can grant bail in such cases. Defence counsel Paul Asigi Abariga urged the court to proceed with current charges.

He argued that the prosecution could amend the charge sheet later if needed. After considering both sides, Justice Aryeetey adjourned the case until Thursday, April 17. She issued a stern warning about further delays leading to potential dismissal of the case if Uchechukwu remained without a plea.