I was forced into stealing by economic hardship - accused

Juaso (Ash), May 28, GNA - A 37-year-old unemployed, put before the Juaso circuit court for stealing two bunches of plantain, told the court that he was forced into committing the offence by economic hardship. Baba Tanko pleaded guilty to crime, went on his knees and said the twin-burden of looking after a wife, who had just given birth to a child, and his blind mother, pushed him to steal.

He could, however, not escape punishment and was sentenced to six months imprisonment in hard labour.

Police Inspector Emmanuel Ofori, told the court presided over by Mr Justice S.K. Sarpong Appiah, that the complainant was a trader and sells foodstuff along the Accra-Kumasi highway at Pra-River Junction near Nadieso. On May 21, at about 2100 hours, the convict was spotted stealing some plantains, which are usually left at the roadside by the traders at the close of the day.

The prosecution said a group of young men at Nadieso were alerted and they quickly mobilized and arrested Tanko. He admitted the offence in his caution statement to the police.