Self-acclaimed evangelist jailed 13 years for theft

Tarkwa (W/R), July 27, GNA- A circuit court at Tarkwa sentenced Joshua Okyere, a 59-year-old self-acclaimed evangelist and herbalist, to 13 years imprisonment for theft. He was sentenced on his own plea.

Inspector Edward Paddy told the court presided over by Mr. John Ajet Nassam that the complainants, Ampong Wenche and his wife lived at Nsuta-Wassa whilst the accused hailed from Agona Abodom in the Central Region.

The prosecution said on July 26, this year, the accused introduced himself as an evangelist and herbalist to the pastor and elders of the Twelve Apostles Church at Awudua near Tarkwa claiming he could cure all manner of sickness. Inspector Paddy said when a witness in the case told the accused that the married couple had tumour and infertility problems, Okyere said he could cure them of their infirmity and he was directed to their house at Nsuta-Wassa.

Prosecution said on July 16, the accused visited the complainants and was accommodated in their house.

Inspector Paddy said the following morning, Wenche left for work leaving his wife and the accused at home.

Prosecution said when Wenche returned from work at about 1700 hours, he realised that his wife was in comma and the accused had left the house with some items belongings to Wenche.

Inspector Paddy said the woman was rushed to hospital where she regained consciousness and upon a tip-off, the police arrested the accused in possession of the stolen items at Bogoso. Passing judgment, Mr. Nasam advised the public to beware of false pastors and evangelists who play on people's ignorance to rob them of their possessions. 27 July 07