Elyasu Kunateh Jailed 10 Years with Hard Labor for Defiling Seven-Year-Old Boy in Wa

A 42-year-old man, Elyasu Kunateh, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison with hard labor by the Wa High Court for defiling a seven-year-old boy in the Upper West Region. The verdict, delivered on July 23, 2026, concludes a case that underscores the critical role of prompt reporting and collaboration between citizens and law enforcement. Presided over by Justice Osei-Wusu Antwi, the court found Kunateh guilty following a trial that established his responsibility for the criminal act committed earlier this year.

The incident took place on January 17, 2026, in Wa. Following the discovery of the abuse, the victim’s mother reported the matter to the authorities, leading to Kunateh’s arrest by the Upper West Regional Police Command and the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU) on January 20, 2026. After a period on remand and thorough investigations by the police, the prosecution successfully presented its case, highlighting the severity of the offense and its impact on the young victim.

In the wake of the sentencing, the Upper West Regional Police Command reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to protecting children from all forms of abuse and exploitation. Law enforcement officials praised the victim's mother for her courage in coming forward and urged the general public to remain vigilant. The police emphasized that timely reports of suspected child abuse are vital for ensuring justice and maintaining the safety of vulnerable minors within Ghanaian communities.