Principal State Attorney Confirms Justice Served In ‘Jirapa Dubai’ Murder Case

Principal State Attorney Confirms Justice Served in ‘Jirapa Dubai’ Murder Case

The Upper West Regional Principal State Attorney, Abdul Shakur Saeed, has welcomed the court’s ruling sentencing Elisha Mahama to life imprisonment for the killing of Eric Johnson, the late CEO of Royal Cosy Hills Hotel, popularly called Jirapa Dubai.

The Principal State Attorney for the Upper West Region, Abdul Shakur Saeed, has praised the High Court’s decision that handed a life sentence to Elisha Mahama for murdering Eric Johnson, owner of the Royal Cosy Hills Hotel.

Speaking to the media after the judgment on Wednesday, October 15, Mr. Saeed described the ruling as fair and well considered. He commended the presiding judge and the entire judicial team for their professionalism and attention to detail during the months of trial.

“They say the wheels of justice move slowly, but they move with precision. We cannot bring Eric Johnson back, but justice has prevailed,” Mr. Saeed said.

The court found Mahama guilty after forensic evidence placed him directly at the crime scene. Investigators matched bloodstained footprints and fingerprints found in the victim’s blood to the convict. Two others who were standing trial, Belinda Miller and Kweku Kankumbata, were discharged due to insufficient evidence.

Mr. Saeed said the verdict was based on strong and clear forensic proof. “The evidence was consistent. He was responsible for the death of Eric Johnson,” he explained.

Commenting on a possible appeal, the State Attorney expressed confidence in the decision. “If the defense decides to appeal, we are ready. We are confident this sound judgment will stand at the appellate level,” he said.

He also praised the court for acquitting the two other accused persons, describing the move as evidence of the judiciary’s balance and fairness. “Every lawyer feels fulfilled when justice is done without bias. Nobody is pleased about Eric Johnson’s death, but the process has been fair to all,” he added.

Mr. Saeed rejected reports suggesting that he broke down during proceedings. “Some media outlets claimed I wept or pleaded for mercy. That is untrue. My tone changed due to emotion, but I did not cry,” he clarified.

With 17 years of experience at the Bar, Mr. Saeed said the case was among the most emotional and challenging of his career.

The court directed that Elisha Mahama serve his life sentence at the Ankaful Maximum Security Prison in the Central Region.

Eric Johnson’s murder in January 2024 at his residence in Jirapa sent shockwaves through the Upper West Region and across Ghana. The deceased entrepreneur was celebrated for his contribution to tourism development and employment creation through his luxury resort, often called Jirapa Dubai.

Pull Quote:
“We cannot bring Eric Johnson back, but justice has prevailed.” – Abdul Shakur Saeed