By: Kekeli K. Blamey
Ransford Nana Addo Jnr, a renowned Crime Analyst and Certified Professional Investigator, has strongly criticized Ghana’s criminal justice system, labeling it as a failure that has not yielded the desired results.
His comments came after two youngsters were convicted of murder in Kasoa, Central Region.
Addo Jnr pointed out that the convicts were only punished because they were caught, whereas if they had escaped, society would have praised them for the benefits gained from their ritual murder.
He cited the case of Nicholas Kini, who received a life sentence for murdering 10-year-old Ishmael Abdallah, and his juvenile accomplice, who will face sentencing in a juvenile court.
Addo Jnr believes Ghanaian society has not taken these heinous crimes seriously enough.
He highlighted the lack of questioning regarding the sources of wealth for young individuals who possess mansions and luxury vehicles.
He also attributed this to the failure of Ghana’s criminal justice system, which relies on outdated laws like the Criminal Offences Act of 1960.
In comparison, other jurisdictions have implemented laws addressing unexplained wealth, which Ghana lacks.
Mr Addo Jnr argues that the current system focuses on punishing those caught rather than addressing the root causes of crime.
He questions the logic of waiting for individuals to be caught before triggering intelligence agencies, emphasizing the need for reform.
