High Court Halts Trial of former NAFCO CEO Hanan Abdul-Wahab Over Seized Devices; Akyem Hemang Residents Demand Justice for Fatal Shooting

The Accra High Court has deferred the trial of former National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) CEO, Hanan Abdul-Wahab Aludiba, and his wife, Faiza Seidu Wuni, to October 7, 2026. Justice Francis Achibonga ruled that proceedings cannot move forward until the court addresses a defense application for the return of mobile phones and other properties seized during the investigation. Aludiba and Wuni face serious charges, including stealing and money laundering, related to an alleged GH¢62.6 million financial loss to the state. The defense argues that the devices contain information critical for a fair trial, a stance the court supported over the prosecution's desire to begin witness testimonies immediately. While legal proceedings stall in Accra, tensions have flared in Akyem Hemang, where residents are demanding justice for 29-year-old Douglas Acheampong. Acheampong was allegedly shot and killed by military personnel at an illegal mining site on August 26, 2026. Witnesses, including Assembly Member Richmond Darko, claim the victim was shot in the back while attempting to flee after security forces fired warning shots. On September 29, community members held a protest, wearing red armbands and presenting a petition to the District Chief Executive, Mercy Korang. Korang assured the residents that their concerns would be forwarded to President John Mahama for executive action. In other domestic legal developments, the Nsuta Circuit Court in the Ashanti Region has remanded 74-year-old trader Kofi Antwi Moosi into police custody for two weeks. Judge Simon Nketiah Gagah issued the ruling on October 1, 2026, following allegations that Moosi caused harm during a cutlass attack. This local criminal matter underscores a busy week for the Ghanaian judiciary, which is currently managing cases ranging from high-profile corruption to violent personal disputes. Internationally, the Iranian judiciary has drawn sharp criticism from human rights organizations after an appeals court upheld a sentence of 74 lashes for singer Parastoo Ahmadi. The penalty stems from a December 2024 livestreamed concert where Ahmadi performed without a hijab, leading to charges of 'offending public decency.' Amnesty International has condemned the punishment as cruel and inhumane, calling for an end to the suppression of artistic expression. Collectively, these events highlight a global landscape marked by significant legal clashes over governance, security, and human rights.