Gideon Owusu sentenced to 18 months for stealing GH₵4,500 vehicle tape

Gideon Owusu, a 24-year-old driver’s mate, has been handed an 18-month prison sentence by the Asante Akropong District Court following his conviction for unlawful damage and theft. The court delivered the judgment after Owusu was caught breaking into a vehicle in Abuakwa and stealing valuable equipment. The sentencing aims to serve as a deterrent to others engaged in similar criminal activities targeting private property.

The incident occurred on October 9, 2026, when Owusu targeted a Mitsubishi pickup belonging to Adams Mohammed, the manager of Chemico Limited. The vehicle had been left unattended overnight, providing an opportunity for the convict to force entry. Police officers patrolling the area noticed the signs of a break-in and subsequently discovered Owusu still inside the vehicle, leading to his immediate apprehension.

During the ensuing police investigation, Owusu confessed to the crimes. He admitted to damaging the interior of the pickup and stealing a car tape valued at GH₵4,500. His confession and the evidence gathered by the police formed the basis of the prosecution's case when he was arraigned before the district court.

The 18-month custodial sentence reflects the court's stance on combined charges of theft and unlawful damage. By addressing both the financial loss of the stolen tape and the physical damage caused to the Mitsubishi pickup, the judicial decision underscores the legal consequences for petty theft and property interference in the Abuakwa area.