An Accra circuit court on Monday ordered an accused, who was almost lynched, to be taken to a psychiatric hospital for medical examination and assessment.
Kwabena Ayittey, unemployed, who had stitches on his head and looked very weak, pleaded guilty to robbery, and causing unlawful harm when the charges were read to him.
Mrs Ruby Naa Aryeetey, the Presiding Judge, upon assessing his demeanour directed that the accused be sent to a psychiatric hospital for a mental assessment.
She adjourned the case to May 17.
Police Chief Inspector William Kojo Boateng, told the court that Madam Martha Addo, the complainant, is a power distribution service, pre-paid vendor, and has her shop located in a storey building near Jamestown in Accra.
He said Ayittey has no fixed place of abode.
Prosecution said on April 19, Ayittey armed with a knife went to the complainant’s shop, pointed it at her and warned her that he would kill her if she raises an alarm.
Chief Insp Boateng said Ayittey asked complainant to hand over all moneys in her possession.
The prosecution said the complainant resisted, and accused stabbed her on the head, neck, left palm, right thumb, chin and jaw.
Chief Insp Boateng said after inflicting wounds on the complainant, accused opened her drawer and took GH¢3,524.00 from a bag.
He said the complainant, who was bleeding profusely, managed to run downstairs and raised the alarm, which attracted sympathisers, and complainant was rushed to the hospital.
Chief Insp Boateng said luck eluded Ayittey, who was still at the shop, as a mob subjected him to severe beatings.
He said the attackers were about to set accused ablaze but he was rescued by the police.
Chief Insp Boateng said Ayittey was taken to the Police Hospital in Accra, where he was admitted and discharged.
Prosecution said accused in his caution statement admitted the offences, and mentioned his accomplices who have not yet been traced. – GNA
