Man 22, arrested for illegal possession of firearm

Cape Coast, May 18, GNA - A 22-year old man, believed to be among a gang that have been snatching bags and mobile phones from travellers at the Mankessim area, was on Wednesday remanded by a circuit court at Cape Coast for illegally possessing a firearm.

Rockson Amoasi, who pleaded guilty with explanation to possessing a firearm without authority and implements intended for unlawful entry, sobbed when he was told that he would be re-arraigned on June 1.

The presiding judge, Mr Mustapha Logoh, deferred sentence on the first count and entered a plea of not guilty for the second count after Amoasi had explained that the implements found in his room, a long screw-driver and a pair of pliers, were tools he had used as an apprentice mechanic.

Prosecuting, Chief Inspector Hope Azasoo told the court that the police received reports that gamblers operating around the Mankessim market area had been snatching hand and travelling bags and mobile phones from travellers, sometimes at gun point.

He said Amoasi, who is believed to be among the gang, was traced to a hideout last Monday upon a tip-off after he had been mentioned as a culprit in a case of unlawful entry and stealing.