Refuse collector jailed for stealing vehicle

A refuse Collector who bolted with a Rav four vehicle at La Wireless was on Monday sentenced to three years imprisonment by an Accra Circuit Court.

William Sarfo charged with stealing pleaded guilty and the court convicted him on his plea.

Sarfo bolted with vehicle when a mechanic who was then driving the vehicle opted to assist Sarfo who was standing in the middle of the road pretending to be a mad person.

The mechanic got out of the vehicle to seek assistance from witness in the case to assist him drag the convict from the middle of the road but Sarfo hurriedly entered the car and sped off with it.

Prosecuting, Chief Inspector M.K Oppong told the court presided by Mr M.E Essandoh that owner of the vehicle was Abena Maanu Adutwum.

According to the prosecutor, the complainant was a mechanic residing at Osu while the accused person also lived at La-Wireless.

Prosecution said two weeks ago, Madam Adutwum gave her the vehicle with registration number GS 1909-10 to the complainant for services

Chief Inspector Oppong said complainant after servicing the vehicle sent it for body spraying at La-Wireless.

On his return, the prosecutor said the complainant on reaching Lum Furniture area, the complainant saw Sarfo standing in the middle of the road holding two stones.

Complainant on seeing that realized that Sarfo was in need of help so he quickly alighted from the vehicle to assist Sarfo leaving the ignition on.

Prosecution said immediately the complainant drew closer to Sarfo, he put the stones on the ground and started shouting.

The complainant tried seeking assistance from a witness who was standing a few meters away from the scene to help offer support to Sarfo.

Sarfo however took advantage of that and quickly took over the complainant’s vehicle and sped off.

Police intercepted the vehicle during a routine patrol checks and when was questioned over his license and as to why he was overspeeding, he could not provide any excuse.

Sarfo in his caution statement admitted bolting with the vehicle adding that he was going to dismantle it and sell as scrap.