Seven Laptops, TV and Fridge Allegedly Stolen as Miner Faces School Theft Charges
A 21-year-old man identified as Emmanuel Boakye Mensah Bekoe has been remanded into prison custody over the alleged theft of electronic equipment and other property from Asuowin D/A Junior High School in the Amansie West District of the Ashanti Region.
The accused, described in court reports as an illegal miner residing at Asuowin, is facing charges of causing unlawful damage, unlawful entry and stealing. His case was brought before the Nkawie Circuit Court as police continued investigations into the incident.
According to the prosecution, the alleged theft came to light on October 12, 2026, when the school’s headmaster arrived at his office at about 7:30 a.m. and discovered that the metal burglar-proof door and its lock had been damaged.
A subsequent inspection reportedly revealed that several items belonging to the school were missing. The items included seven laptop computers, a 43-inch television, a refrigerator, a tabletop computer and GH¢1,000 in cash.
The value of the allegedly stolen property was estimated at GH¢31,000, while the damaged door and lock were valued at GH¢9,500.
The incident prompted a report to the police, who began investigations to establish how the school’s office had been entered and identify those responsible for the missing property.
Emmanuel Boakye Mensah Bekoe was subsequently arrested on suspicion of involvement in the alleged theft. Prosecutors told the court that he admitted the offence in a caution statement during the investigation.
The prosecution further said the accused led police officers to his room, where the television and refrigerator allegedly taken from the school were recovered.
The recovery of the two items forms part of the evidence being considered by investigators as they work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident and account for the remaining property.
The accused was remanded into custody by the Nkawie Circuit Court. His plea was not taken because police investigations were still ongoing at the time of the proceedings.
He was expected to reappear before the court on October 28, 2026, to answer the charges.
The alleged incident has drawn attention to the security of school facilities and the protection of equipment used for teaching, administration and other educational activities. The loss of computers and other essential items can disrupt school operations and place additional financial pressure on institutions that must replace stolen property.
School authorities and local communities rely on effective security arrangements and cooperation with law enforcement to protect public educational facilities. Investigations into incidents of this nature are also important in establishing responsibility and ensuring that any recovered property can be returned to its rightful owner.
However, the allegations against Bekoe remain subject to the judicial process. The prosecution must present its evidence in court, and the accused is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
The next court appearance is expected to provide an update on the case as police continue their investigations into the alleged theft and damage to the school’s property.
Source: Thepressradio.com
