The victim, 25-year-old Veronica Akua Mensah, had just begun working at a private clinic in the area three weeks ago.
She was reported missing on the evening of Wednesday, July 23, 2025. Her lifeless body was discovered the next morning in a bush near Kwashieman, bearing signs of assault and sexual violence.
According to the Greater Accra Regional Police Command, Veronica was lured by someone she trusted — a former classmate from nursing school who had contacted her earlier that week with a job offer.
“We have identified the suspect as Michael Owusu, 27, who posed as a representative of a health NGO and promised her a part-time opportunity,” said DSP Lydia Darko during a press briefing on Friday.
“He arranged to meet her on the night of the incident and offered to take her to the supposed office.”
Police say the two met near Darkuman Junction, where Michael convinced her to board a motorbike. Instead of taking her to any office, he led her into a quiet area under the pretense of a shortcut. It was there that the brutal assault took place.
“The evidence from the crime scene and phone records pointed directly to the suspect,” DSP Darko added.
“He has been arrested and is assisting with investigations.”
Family members say Veronica was excited about the opportunity and had told them earlier that day she was meeting someone about an extra job.
“She said it was a chance to earn more money to help at home,” said her sister, Bernice.
“We didn’t know it would be the last time we saw her.”
The community is in shock and demanding justice. Local leaders and women’s groups have called for stronger protection for young women and stricter background checks for job offers shared online.
The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has also condemned the incident and urged the police to prosecute the suspect fully.
Veronica’s body has been sent to the Police Hospital in Accra for autopsy.
Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced as the family mourns her tragic death.