Kadjebi police arrest farmer for allegedly murderiing girlfriend's mum

Police in the Oti Region have arrested a 36-year-old man over the death of an 80-year-old woman in Kpeglo Kofe in the Kadjebi District.

The suspect, identified by police as Chalim Madzaton, also known as Peter Tano, was picked up at a hideout in Kpaya near Ampeyo after what authorities described as an intelligence-led operation.

He is being held in connection with the death of Dakolor Semaka, who police believe was the mother of his girlfriend.

According to preliminary findings, the incident happened on 24 March 2026 at a residence in Kpeglo Kofe, near Mangoase. Investigators say the suspect allegedly attacked both his girlfriend, Yaa Tugbenyo, 55, and her elderly mother during the incident.

Police say Ms Tugbenyo managed to escape while the attack was unfolding. When she later returned to the house, she found her mother lying unresponsive.

Officers who went to the scene found the deceased on her back with visible signs of assault. The area was examined and photographed as part of the initial investigation.

A medical officer at St Mary Theresa Catholic Hospital in Dodi-Papase later confirmed the woman’s death. Her body has since been placed in the hospital morgue pending an autopsy.

In a statement issued from the Oti Regional Police Headquarters in Dambai and signed by Deputy Superintendent of Police John Nchor of the Public Affairs Unit, police said the suspect remains in custody and is assisting with enquiries. He is expected to be put before the court.

The incident has also drawn reaction from local leaders. Seidu Shamsu, the assemblyman for the Mangoase Electoral Area, confirmed the killing and called on the police to pursue the matter fully to ensure justice is done.

He said the suspect should face a prison term if found guilty.