Mahogany bitters deaths: Bar owner charged with murder

The Kwesimintsim Police Command in the Western region have charged the owner of ‘Pito bar’ a popular pub at Apremudo, Madam Bandana and her accomplice with murder.

The two were charged following the death of a Naval officer, Leading Seaman Emmanuel Fugar and the wife of another military sergeant after consuming Mahogany bitters from the pub.

The Naval officer went to the popular pub to consume the bitters in order to gain appetite for his evening meal.

However, he collapsed immediately after consuming the drink and was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival. The wife of the military officer also died under similar circumstances.

A regulatory officer with the Foods and Drugs Authority in Takoradi Philomena Kyeiwaa has revealed that the popular bitters is not approved and registered. She has since advised the general public to desist from consuming the Mahogany drink.

Kwesimintsim Police Commander, Supt Kwadwo Nkansah in an interview with Empire News’ Emmanuel Ohene Gyan said the two have been granted bail by a Takoradi Circuit Court.

Following the death of the officer, the Ghana Armed Forces have shut down all drinking bars and food joints within the Apremudo Barracks in Takoradi.