An Accra Circuit Court has sentenced a 38-year-old unemployed man, Thomas Kwabena Vordzorgbe, to six years in prison for robbing a Nigerian national of an Itel mobile phone valued at GH¢350.
The verdict, delivered on Monday, August 4, 2025, by Her Honour Basilia Adjei-Tawiah, came after a full trial during which the accused was found guilty of robbery, contrary to Section 149 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29). Vordzorgbe, who pleaded not guilty, was convicted based on compelling evidence presented by the prosecution.
The case, which began in November 2022 under the initial supervision of His Lordship Isaac Oheneba Kuffour, was later concluded by Her Honour Adjei-Tawiah. The prosecution was led by Chief Inspector John Gohoho and later continued by Inspector Rosemond.
Incident Overview
According to the prosecution’s account, the incident occurred on November 7, 2022, when the victim, Blessing Nenya — a Nigerian from Delta State and resident of Nungua Cocoa Beach — was returning from a night out near the Spintex area. At about 3 a.m., Nenya arrived at the Nungua Shell Filling Station, hoping to find a taxi home.
It was there that Vordzorgbe, who resided at Nungua Kings-Way, spotted and trailed him to the location. Upon confronting the victim, Vordzorgbe demanded he hand over his belongings. When Nenya resisted, the accused pulled out a machete and slashed the victim on the left hand, rendering him injured and unable to defend himself. Vordzorgbe then made away with Nenya’s Itel phone.
The victim lodged a complaint with the Nungua Police, where he was issued a medical form for treatment. Later that day, Nenya received information that his attacker was attempting to sell the stolen phone at the Nungua Lorry Station. With the help of community members, Nenya identified and confronted Vordzorgbe, leading to his arrest.
Police conducted a search on the suspect and retrieved the stolen phone from his possession. During interrogation, Vordzorgbe admitted to the crime in his caution statement.
Detective Sergeant Simon Ndeog-Naab Migida led the investigation, culminating in Vordzorgbe’s arraignment and eventual conviction.
Judicial Response
The six-year custodial sentence is being hailed by many as a firm statement by the judiciary against rising street-level robberies in the capital. Though the value of the stolen item was relatively low, the violent nature of the crime and the injury inflicted on the victim played a key role in the court’s decision.
Residents in Nungua and beyond have praised the swift action of the police and the victim’s determination to ensure justice was served.
The case adds to growing concerns about nighttime safety and petty crimes in Accra’s suburbs, prompting calls for increased patrols and community vigilance.
