The Adabraka District Court has adjourned the murder case of Gifty Oppong, a policewoman accused of killing taxi driver Edward Awuku Owusu at Tetegu, near Accra, to May 26. The court is pressing for expedited action from the police to forward a duplicate docket to the Attorney-General’s Department for advice, citing significant delays since the case began on February 3, 2026.
Case Background and Delays
Policewoman Gifty Oppong stands accused of shooting and killing taxi driver Edward Awuku Owusu, also known as Papa Kwesi, following a confrontation. The incident reportedly occurred on January 19, 2026, in Tetegu, a community near Weija in Accra.
Preliminary police investigations indicate that the victim was rushed to the Police Hospital after the shooting but was tragically pronounced dead on arrival. The accused policewoman, Oppong, sustained injuries to her head and legs, allegedly after being hit by a vehicle while attempting to leave the scene.
She was subsequently treated at a hospital. Exhibits retrieved from the crime scene included a 9mm live round, a magazine, and an empty 9mm cartridge.
Court Proceedings and Concerns
During the court session on Wednesday, Inspector Sandra Amarkye, holding brief for the prosecution, informed the court that the police had not yet submitted the necessary duplicate docket to the Attorney-General’s Department for legal advice. This prompted the prosecution to request an adjournment.
The court expressed its concern over the protracted delay, noting that the case has been before the district court since February 3, 2026. The judge specifically questioned the prosecution regarding the reasons for the slow progress in forwarding the docket.
Legal Representation and Bail Application
Mr. Raymond Felli, counsel for the accused policewoman, indicated his intention to proceed with a bail application at the High Court. Despite this, the district court subsequently remanded Gifty Oppong into police custody.
Oppong has been charged with murder, though her plea has been preserved by the court as proceedings continue. The court’s directive for the prosecution to expedite action underscores the urgency in moving the case forward and obtaining the necessary legal guidance from the Attorney-General’s Department.
Implications and Future Outlook
The delays in forwarding the duplicate docket raise questions about the efficiency of police investigative processes and inter-departmental communication. Such delays can impact the progression of justice for both the accused and the victim’s family.
The upcoming adjournment on May 26 will be critical. The court’s continued focus on the docket’s status signals that any further delays could lead to more stringent judicial interventions. The defense’s intent to pursue a bail application at a higher court also indicates a potential shift in legal strategy.
The outcome of the Attorney-General’s advice will determine the next steps in the prosecution of Gifty Oppong. Observers will be watching closely to see if the police can meet the court’s expectations for expedited action and how the legal proceedings will unfold in the coming weeks.
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