Shipping clerk charged with stealing 66 million cedis

Tema, March 22, GNA- The Tema Circuit Court "B" has granted 70 million cedis bail to a shipping clerk who is alleged to have stolen 66 million cedis belonging to Mr Benson Awal.

John Asamoah pleaded not guilty and will reappear on March 31 2004. Prosecuting, Police Chief Inspector Edith Nutakor told the court presided over by Mr Stephen Teye that in February 2003, Mr Awal who is resident in USA arrived in the country with three cars through the Tema harbour.

She said Mr Awal contacted Asamoah through a witness to clear the three cars including Honda, Chevrolet and Prymouth, adding, the complainant handed over the bill of laden to the accused.

Subsequently, Asamoah collected 79 million cedis from Mr Awal for documentation and the clearing of the three cars, however, he (accused) was able to clear only the Honda at the cost 23 million cedis, leaving the two other cars to meet the 60 days deadline, and made use of the remaining balance of 66 million cedis.

Chief Inspector Nutakor said persistent demand of the money to enable him (Mr Awal) to clear the two other cars never materialised, therefore he made a report to the police and the accused was arrested.