A recent incident in which a 23-year-old prisoner managed to escape lawful custody but was later apprehended has drawn attention to the security measures within Ghana’s judicial system. Pius Anundoabil Ayoma, an electrician, faced charges of conspiracy, unlawful damage, and escaping from custody. During his plea, Ayoma explained that the severe physical and emotional pain he experienced due to personal losses led to his attempt to cut through the burglar proof, although he claimed that it was his accomplice who carried out the act.
However, the court entered a plea of not guilty to all charges, except conspiracy to commit crime and escaping from custody. In response to the accused person’s explanation, the court ordered an investigation into the alleged involvement of a police officer who supposedly provided the cutter used in the escape. Consequently, Ayoma has been remanded while awaiting further trial, with the case adjourned until May 22, 2023.
In a separate development, Ayoma’s accomplice, Godwin Klu, a 26-year-old tiler, was convicted and sentenced to four years in prison for his involvement. Klu faced charges of conspiracy, unlawful damage, and abetment of crime. He has since been transferred to Ankaful Prisons to serve his sentence.
According to the prosecution, both Ayoma and Klu were in custody at the Manet Police Station, facing separate charges. During their detention, they allegedly devised a plan to escape, resulting in the damage of the cell’s window burglar proof, wire mesh, and mosquito net. Ayoma’s escape attempt was unsuccessful as his trousers got caught on the iron rod, leaving him suspended from the window. Klu assisted Ayoma by freeing his trousers, but both were ultimately recaptured.
The incident highlights the need for enhanced security protocols within detention facilities to prevent such occurrences. Investigations into the alleged involvement of a police officer in facilitating the escape will shed light on potential shortcomings in the system. For the most part, this case underscores the importance of ensuring the safety and integrity of custodial processes to maintain public trust and confidence in the criminal justice system.
Efforts should be made to evaluate existing security measures and implement necessary improvements to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. Maintaining the security of prisoners and ensuring their accountability is vital for upholding the rule of law and protecting the public. By addressing the shortcomings identified in this case, the Ghanaian judicial system can strive for greater effectiveness and maintain the public’s faith in its ability to uphold justice and maintain law and order.