The Adentan Municipal Assembly (AdMA) has organised a three-day prosecutorial training workshop for officers of its Environmental Health and Sanitation Unit to strengthen their capacity to enforce public health regulations and sanitation bye-laws.

Organised by the Assembly's Human Resource Department, the workshop focused on equipping the officers with the knowledge and practical skills required to prepare prosecution cases, manage case dockets and present evidence in court, within the limits of their legal authority.

The training was facilitated by a legal consultant and covered criminal procedure in District Courts, case docket analysis, witness preparation, the handling of court exhibits and the application of the law of evidence.

Participants also received instruction on procedures for initiating criminal proceedings, including the preparation of charge sheets and the processes for obtaining summonses and warrants. The sessions further examined relevant provisions of the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30), and Article 19 of the 1992 Constitution, particularly in relation to criminal proceedings and fair-trial requirements.

The first day focused on the legal and procedural foundations of prosecution, with lectures, discussions and experience-sharing sessions. Participants examined common defects in criminal charges, including ambiguity, vagueness and duplicity, as well as the stages of a court trial, from the taking of oaths to witness examination and re-examination.

On the second day, officers participated in practical exercises designed to apply the concepts discussed during the lectures. Working in groups, they analysed case dockets, drafted charge sheets and conducted mock witness examinations under the supervision of the facilitator.

The exercises were intended to strengthen their understanding of prosecution procedures, improve their case preparation skills and build confidence in presenting evidence in court.

The final day focused on professional report writing and records management. Participants were guided on preparing clear, factual, and legally sound inspection reports, as well as post-court reports and summaries.

The sessions highlighted the importance of accurate documentation and proper evidence management in supporting prosecution cases and ensuring that observations made during field inspections are adequately recorded for possible legal proceedings.

The management of the Adentan Municipal Assembly commended the Human Resource Department, the facilitator, and the Environmental Health and Sanitation Unit for their participation in the capacity-building initiative.

The training is expected to strengthen the officers' capacity to enforce environmental sanitation bye-laws, improve the preparation of prosecution cases, and support efforts to protect public health across the municipality.