A/R: Three Nigerian nationals convicted for vehicle theft offences in Kumasi
A/R: Three Nigerian nationals convicted for vehicle theft offences in Kumasi
The Ashanti Regional Police Command has disclosed that three Nigerian nationals arrested on 20th June 2025 for engaging in theft activities targeting parked vehicles within the Kumasi Metropolis have been successfully prosecuted and convicted.
Francis Friday, Linus Agwazie, and Russell Ekenze were brought before the Atasemanso Circuit Court on July 22, 2025. During the proceedings, Russell Ekenze pleaded guilty to the charges and was convicted and sentenced to 10 years imprisonment with hard labor (IHL).
Francis Friday and Linus Agwazie entered not guilty pleas. On July 23, 2025, Circuit Court 3 heard the cases of Francis Friday and Linus Agwazie, finding them guilty and sentencing each to 8 years IHL on two counts, to run concurrently.
The same day, Circuit Court I heard additional charges against all three suspects, resulting in 20-year IHL sentences each, also on two counts, and to run concurrently.
On July 24, 2025, Russell Ekenze was further convicted at Circuit Court 2, receiving an additional 10-year IHL sentence on two counts, to run concurrently with his existing sentence.
The convicts, Francis Friday, Linus Agwazie, and Russell Ekenze, are currently serving their sentences at the Kumasi Central Prison.
As stated in a Police statement issued on Sunday, September 7, the successful prosecution highlights the Ashanti Regional Police Command’s unwavering commitment to protecting life and property, and its collaboration with the judiciary to ensure that criminal elements face the full force of the law.
The Police urged the public to continue cooperating with law enforcement by reporting suspicious activities and providing timely information to aid in crime prevention and public safety.
