The Adentan Circuit Court 1, presided over by Her Ladyship Angela Attachie, has remanded two men into police custody for two weeks after they appeared in court over the alleged defilement of a 14-year-old girl.
The accused, Alfred Quansah, 18, and Paul Mbea, 30, pleaded guilty with explanation. They claimed the girl had consented to the act. However, under Ghanaian law, anyone under 16 cannot legally consent to sexual activity. The law classifies such actions as defilement, regardless of agreement.
Lawyer Belinda Narkey Quaynor, counsel for the victim, explained after the hearing that although the accused admitted to the offense, sentencing has been postponed.
The judge ordered an age assessment for Alfred Quansah, as there is uncertainty about whether he is indeed 18 years old. The result will determine whether he should be sentenced as an adult or under juvenile law.
The prosecution objected to bail, stating that the two do not have permanent residential addresses. This has made it difficult for police to locate six other individuals named by the victim.
According to the case facts, the victim lives with her parents and siblings in Madina. Due to financial hardship and limited supervision, she sometimes stayed out overnight. In July 2025, her stepfather noticed physical changes and suspected she was pregnant. She later confirmed the pregnancy and named the accused among others. A medical report supported her statement.
The accused were arrested and admitted during police questioning that they had sexual contact with the girl. They are expected to return to court after the age assessment is completed.
With support from the Member of Parliament for Madina, Hon. Francis Xavier-Sosu, who is providing legal assistance, the victim is currently in a safe environment and receiving the necessary care.
