31-year-old jailed seven years for defiling a 5-year-old girl

A 31-year-old man, Issahaku Waris, has been sentenced to seven years’ imprisonment for the defilement of a five-year-old girl in the Upper West Region.

The sentence was handed down by the Wa Circuit Court on Friday, July 18, 2025, under the watchful eyes of His Lordship Jonathan Avoogo. Waris, a resident of Wa Zongo, was convicted of the crime that took place on Thursday, April 24, 2025, when he defiled the young girl in a case that has drawn public attention due to its disturbing nature.

The suspect was arrested two days later, on Saturday, April 26, 2025, by officers of the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU), following a swift investigation. Waris was quickly brought before the court, where he was tried and found guilty.

In his ruling, His Lordship Avoogo sentenced Waris to seven years of hard labour for the crime, marking a significant step in the justice system’s commitment to protecting vulnerable members of society.

The case has been praised for the effective collaboration between the police, the victim’s family, and the community. Their quick action ensured that the suspect faced justice without delay, offering a measure of relief to the victim’s family.

The Upper West Regional Police Command expressed its continued commitment to safeguarding the rights of children and ensuring that perpetrators of such crimes are held accountable.

The police also urged the public to report any form of abuse promptly to prevent further harm and ensure justice is served.

In a statement, ACP Peter Kamasa, Deputy Regional Police Commander, said, “This conviction underscores our commitment to justice, and we remain focused on protecting children and vulnerable individuals in the region. We also encourage the public to remain vigilant and report any instances of abuse.”

The regional police also reminded the public of the importance of working together with law enforcement agencies to combat crimes such as defilement, which continue to pose significant threats to the safety and well-being of children.

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