Oyarifa: Man arrested over alleged defilement of nine-year-old girl

The Ghana Police Service has arrested a 40-year-old man in connection with an alleged defilement case involving a nine-year-old girl at Oyarifa in Accra.

According to a police statement issued on March 19, the suspect, identified as Paul Kofi Annan, was apprehended on March 17, 2026, following a formal complaint lodged with the police.

Alleged abuse reported

Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect, who is reportedly the stepfather of the victim, had been living with the child’s mother since 2023 and married her in February 2026. The victim is said to have disclosed the alleged abuse to her grandfather during a visit to Cape Coast.

Police say the alleged abuse occurred over a period of about three years and involved repeated incidents whenever the child’s mother was not at home.

The victim also reportedly stated that she had been threatened by the suspect to prevent her from speaking about the incidents.

Investigations underway

The suspect is currently in police custody, assisting with investigations.

The police have reiterated their commitment to protecting children and urged parents and guardians to promptly report any suspected abuse or threats to enable swift intervention.