Mankessim murder case: Court empanels jury, trial set for May 15  

The Cape Coast High Court II has successfully empanelled a seven-member jury for the trial of two men accused of murdering a 25-year-old aspiring nurse in Mankessim.

Despite facing challenges in the first attempt to constitute the jury on Tuesday, April 16, the court succeeded on Thursday, April 18, setting Wednesday, May 15, 2024, as the commencement date for the trial.

Christopher Ekow Clark Quansah, known as Nana Clark, a 65-year-old trader, and Michael Darko, a 48-year-old pastor, stand accused of killing Georgina Asor Botchwey. Both have denied the charges of conspiracy to commit murder and murder, as well as unlawfully possessing explosives, firearms, and ammunition.

Presiding judge Justice John Mark Alifu cautioned the jury to approach the case with open-mindedness, focusing on the evidence presented rather than any preconceived notions. He warned against actions that could compromise the trial's fairness, such as receiving gifts from individuals connected to the case.

The prosecution, led by Principal State Attorney Vincent Nyineku, stated their intention to present seven witnesses, including Alfred Duodu, the deceased's brother, and Jonathan Obeng, who allegedly dug the grave. They promised to provide compelling evidence to support their case.

In response, Roland A.K. Hamilton, Darko's counsel, urged the jury to remain vigilant and not be swayed by emotional appeals from the prosecution. He emphasized the importance of critically evaluating the evidence presented.

The case revolves around the events of September 8, 2022, when Georgina Asor Botchwey, seeking admission to the Ankaful Psychiatric Nursing School, arrived in Cape Coast. Darko, her sister's fiancé, picked her up after her interview and allegedly conspired with Clark to kill her.

On September 9, 2022, Clark and Darko allegedly murdered Georgina by striking her head with a club and strangling her. They then buried her body, which was later discovered by the police following an investigation prompted by a complaint from the deceased's brother.

Darko was arrested on September 19, 2022, and confessed to the crime, leading the police to the burial site. Clark was subsequently apprehended in his hideout at Ekumfi Akwaakrom.

Initially charged before the Cape Coast District Court II, the accused persons now face trial in the Cape Coast High Court II for their alleged involvement in the murder of Georgina Asor Botchwey.