ACCRA, GHANA – In a significant development today, the Baatsonaa District Court denied a bail application filed by defense counsel for the five suspects accused in the mob killing of 26-year-old Liberian national Austin Tengbeh.
Defense counsel for the suspects—Francis Amuzu, William Addison, Vincent Adzikah, Enoch Mensah, and Agyening Boateng—formally petitioned the court to grant bail to their clients. The defense argued that the accused individuals are entitled to bail under the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, emphasizing their willingness to cooperate with the judicial process and adhere to any conditions the court might impose. They further contended that the suspects pose no flight risk.
However, in a firm ruling, presiding judge Her Ladyship Mabel Ahele denied the bail application. The court held that, given the gravity of the charges and the circumstances surrounding the case, it would not be in the interest of justice to release the suspects at this stage.
The court also cited concerns regarding the integrity of the ongoing investigation and the potential for witness interference as key reasons for the decision.
Following Judge Ahele’s ruling, all five suspects will remain in custody pending the next hearing, which has been adjourned to April 27, 2026.
Legal observers say this development underscores the seriousness with which the Ghanaian judiciary is treating the case, as the pursuit of justice for Austin Tengbeh remains a priority for both the Liberian community and local authorities.
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