Kasoa ritual murder: Juvenile Court to sentence 15-year-old today

The Juvenile Court in Accra is set to sentence a 15-year-old boy. He was found guilty of conspiring with another teenager to murder a 10-year-old boy. This incident occurred in Kasoa, Central Region, for a money ritual.

The sentencing was originally scheduled for January 16, 2025. It was postponed due to the lack of a social enquiry report. This report is important for determining an appropriate sentence for the juvenile.

According to Section 24 of the Juvenile Justice Act, 2003 (Act 653), a probation officer must prepare this report. The report should detail the juvenile’s background and circumstances of the offence. It also includes recommendations for sentencing.

In October 2024, a seven-member jury found both teenagers guilty of conspiracy to commit murder and murder. The High Court, led by Justice Lydia Osei Marfo, sentenced Nicholas Kini, aged 18, to life imprisonment.

The sentencing for the 15-year-old was referred to the Juvenile Court. This follows Section 18(1) of the Juvenile Justice Act, which requires special procedures for juveniles. Since then, he has remained in police custody while awaiting today’s sentencing.