Abesim murder case: Court orders accused to open defence

The Accra High Court has ruled that Richard Appiah, the man accused of killing two boys in Abesim near Sunyani and allegedly storing dismembered body parts in a refrigerator, must open his defence.

Appiah, a draughtsman, is facing two counts of murder. He has pleaded not guilty.

The prosecution, led by Senior State Attorney Nana Ama Adinkra, called six witnesses before closing its case. After cross-examination by the defence, Appiah’s lawyers filed a submission of no case, arguing that the prosecution had failed to establish sufficient evidence for trial to continue.

However, presiding judge Justice Ruby Aryeetey disagreed. In her ruling, she said the prosecution had established a prima facie case that required a response from the accused.

The court therefore ordered Appiah to open his defence and adjourned proceedings to October 30.

Appiah is accused of killing 12-year-old Louis Agyemang and 15-year-old Stephen Sarpong in 2021. The case shocked the nation after police allegedly discovered body parts belonging to one of the boys in a double-door fridge in his home.

The prosecution has relied on Appiah’s cautioned statements, autopsy reports dated December 16, 2022, and May 25, 2023, as well as photographs of the victims’ remains, burnt clothing, and the refrigerator containing the dismembered parts.

Appiah remains in lawful custody and is being represented by lawyer Faustinus Yirilabuo.

The trial continues later this month as the accused prepares to respond to the charges.