Ghana News / Court
The High Court in Accra has denied bail to Salomey Awity Bafoh, the first accused in the “Ghana Jollof” case, citing concerns over possible interference with electronic evidence and ongoing investigations.
The High Court in Accra has refused a bail application filed by Salomey Awity Bafoh, the first accused in the case involving Barbara Asantewaa Kodua, popularly known as “Ghana Jollof.”
Justice Halima El-Alawa Abdul-Baasit ruled on Thursday, September 24, that although the alleged offence is a misdemeanour and generally bailable, this does not give the accused an automatic right to bail.
The court said the prosecution had established sufficient grounds to justify keeping Bafoh in custody while investigations continue, particularly due to the cyber-related nature of the case and the handling of electronic evidence.
According to the court, digital evidence may be altered, deleted or concealed, creating a risk that its integrity could be compromised if the accused were released at this stage.
The court therefore ordered Bafoh to remain in lawful custody until the next adjourned date and directed the Republic to expedite its investigations.
During Thursday’s proceedings, defence counsel Nana Agyei Baffour argued that Bafoh was entitled to the constitutional presumption of innocence and the right to liberty. He also highlighted her status as a mother of minor children and raised concerns about her health.
The prosecution, represented by Maame Korantema Aboagye-Darko, opposed the bail application, arguing that investigations were still ongoing and that Bafoh’s presence was necessary, including in efforts to locate and arrest the second accused, who is reportedly at large.
The Republic also argued that there was a risk of interference with witnesses and other persons connected to the investigation. It further said no medical records had been presented to substantiate the health concerns raised by the defence.
The court stressed that the refusal of bail should not be interpreted as a finding of guilt. It said the decision was based solely on concerns about possible interference with evidence and the need to protect the ongoing investigation.
Bafoh, a 40-year-old senior nursing officer, is facing a charge of abetment of crime, to wit publication of false news, in connection with the “Ghana Jollof” case.
The court said she would be free to renew her bail application if there is a material change in circumstances or new facts that could affect the basis of the ruling.
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