Illegal miner jailed 16 months for arson attempt in Aboso

A 26-year-old illegal miner, Prince Awuah, has been sentenced to 16 months in prison with hard labor by the Tarkwa District Magistrate Court One for unlawful entry and attempted arson.

Awuah, who lives in Ndadieso, a suburb of Aboso, pleaded guilty and was convicted on his admission. Magistrate Charles Owusu Nsiah heard the case.

Presenting the facts, Police Sergeant Enoch Assan-Donkoh told the court that the complainant, Solomon Donkor, is a farmer residing in Aboso. On the night of April 19, 2025, around 10:30 p.m., Donkor and his family locked up their home and went to bed.

At about 2:00 a.m., Donkor’s elder brother—who also lives in the house and served as a witness—woke up for prayers and noticed smoke in his room. Upon investigating, he discovered Awuah had set some clothes on fire and was trying to extend the flames toward the electricity meter, apparently intending to burn down the house.

The witness immediately raised an alarm, drawing neighbors and family members to the scene. Awuah was apprehended and handed over to the Aboso Police, where a formal complaint was filed.

A search of the suspect led to the discovery of a lighter, and during questioning, Awuah admitted to the act. He claimed he was under the influence of alcohol and Indian hemp at the time of the incident.

Following his confession and guilty plea, the court sentenced him to serve 16 months in custody with hard labor.