A 23-year-old mason, Ebenezer Birikwai, popularly known as “Immortal,” has been remanded into police custody by the Bekwai Circuit Court over the alleged defilement of a four-year-old girl in the Manso Afedie community.
Birikwai faces a charge of defilement, contrary to Section 101 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29), as amended. The offence was allegedly committed on April 16, 2026.
Court Proceedings
The accused was arraigned before the Bekwai Circuit Court following his arrest and initial police investigations. The court, after hearing preliminary facts, ordered his remand to assist further inquiries. The case has been transferred to the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) in Manso Nkwanta. Birikwai is expected to reappear on a later date.
Prosecution’s Facts
Prosecutors told the court that Birikwai approached a group of children playing in a corridor in Manso Afedie. He allegedly gave them his mobile phone to watch content while he sat nearby. During this time, the prosecution claims, he took advantage of the situation and defiled the four-year-old victim.
The incident was discovered when the victim’s aunt passed by, noticed suspicious behaviour, and intervened. Her actions attracted other residents, including the child’s mother, leading to a community response. The matter was reported to the Unit Committee Chairman, who alerted the Manso Adubia Police. Officers arrested the suspect and transferred him to DOVVSU.
Medical Report
A medical report from St. Martin’s Catholic Hospital in Agroyesum, endorsed by Dr. (Mrs.) Patience S. Marfo, indicated findings consistent with sexual abuse, according to prosecutors.
Investigators also informed the court that in a caution statement taken before an independent witness, the accused allegedly admitted to the offence and pleaded for forgiveness.
Legal Framework
Under Ghana’s Criminal Offences Act, defilement involves any sexual activity with a child below 16 years, with or without consent. The offence carries a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years imprisonment, extendable to 25 years upon conviction.
Police Advisory
The police have commended residents for their swift intervention and urged the public to remain vigilant in protecting children. Citizens are encouraged to promptly report suspected child abuse cases to the nearest police station or DOVVSU office.
