High Court rejects bail for BenLord in Millenium City murder case

A man who claims to be a traditional ruler has been denied bail once again by the Accra High Court after being accused of fatally shooting a military officer over a land dispute at Millennium City, near Kasoa in the Central Region.

BenLord Ababio, also known as Nana Barima Ababio, is currently on trial alongside Nana Kofi Amo Kwakye. Both men face conspiracy charges, while Ababio is separately charged with murder.

Bail Application Rejected

During a hearing on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, defense lawyer Nii Korle argued that his client, presumed innocent until proven guilty, deserved bail to safeguard his fundamental rights. He insisted that Ababio posed no flight risk and would comply with all conditions set by the court.

“We are willing to accept any conditions the court deems necessary to guarantee his presence during trial. The accused person will fully cooperate with the legal process if granted bail,” Korle assured.

Prosecution's Opposition

State Attorney Frederick Adu-Gyamfu, however, strongly opposed the bail request, citing three key concerns.

First, he argued that Ababio, who was already on bail for a separate case when the alleged crime occurred, might abscond if released.

Second, he described Ababio as a violent individual with a high likelihood of committing further offences.

Third, he emphasized the severity of the alleged crime, stating that the murder was committed in full public view—inside a police station.

“The evidence against the accused is overwhelming, and considering the circumstances, bail should not be granted,” Adu-Gyamfu asserted.

After reviewing the arguments from both sides, presiding judge Justice Kizita Naa Koowa Quarshie denied the bail request, marking the second time Ababio's plea for release has been rejected. He remains in custody, with the case adjourned to February 25, 2024.

Case Background

The incident occurred on April 30, 2024, around 4:00 p.m., when three military officers—Lance Corporals Michael Danso, Abdul Omar Rahman, and Ametus Matthew—visited the Millennium City Police Station in a Toyota RAV4 to report a trespassing issue.

Their complaint stemmed from reports that individuals were unlawfully developing land belonging to Lance Corporal Rahman.

While they were at the station, Ababio allegedly arrived and, without warning, opened fire on Lance Corporal Danso, who was seated in the driver's seat, killing him instantly.

Police officers at the scene quickly intervened, disarming and arresting Ababio. Subsequent investigations led to the arrest of Kwakye as well.

The case remains under judicial review as the court determines the next course of action.